Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 1 Lira 1977, KM# 45, Malta, Pharaoh Hound
  • 1 Lira 1977, KM# 45, Malta, Pharaoh Hound
Description

The Pharaoh Hound is a sleek, elegant, and athletic dog breed known for its graceful appearance, keen hunting instincts, and unique trait of blushing—its nose and ears can turn a rosy color when excited or happy. Thought to be one of the oldest domesticated dog breeds, it is often associated with ancient Egypt, although its modern development is closely tied to the island of Malta, where it is known as the "Kelb tal-Fenek" (Rabbit Dog) and is the national dog. Originally bred for hunting rabbits in rocky terrain, the Pharaoh Hound is highly intelligent, energetic, and affectionate, though it retains a strong prey drive. Its short, glossy coat is typically tan or rich chestnut with white markings. Despite its regal, aloof look, it is friendly, loyal, and thrives in active households with space to run.

Obverse

Depicts the coat of arms, surrounded by the name of the Republic of Malta above and the date below.

The coat of arms was adopted on 11 July 1975, seven months after Malta became a republic. It featured a coastal scene with a rising sun, a traditional Maltese boat (Luzzu), a shovel and pitchfork, and an Opuntia cactus. The emblem sparked controversy due to its non-heraldic nature, and it was replaced shortly after the Nationalist Party's victory in the 1987 election. While there were suggestions to reinstate the 1964 coat of arms, a simplified version of it was ultimately adopted.

·REPUBBLIKA·TA'·MALTA·

Reverse

Depicts a standing Pharaoh Hound left on the shore rock, denomination with the symbol of a pound (£) at the upper right and date at the opposite side of the denomination.

Designer: Pietro Giampaoli

£M1
1977

Edge

1 Lira (1 Pound)

Pharaoh Hound

KM# 45
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.925
Weight 5.66 g
Diameter 24.5 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Malta Mint

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