Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 1 Lira 1973, KM# 19, Malta, Temi Zammit
  • 1 Lira 1973, KM# 19, Malta, Temi Zammit
Description

Sir Themistocles "Temi" Zammit (1864–1935) was a distinguished Maltese scientist, archaeologist, historian, and writer whose work profoundly influenced Malta’s scientific and cultural development. Best known for discovering in 1905 that brucellosis (Malta Fever) was transmitted through contaminated goat’s milk, he played a key role in eradicating the disease and earned international recognition and a knighthood. Zammit also led excavations of major prehistoric sites such as the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum and Tarxien Temples, helping establish Malta’s archaeological heritage. He served as the first Director of the National Museum of Archaeology and was Rector of the University of Malta, where he championed education and research. His legacy lives on through institutions named in his honor and his appearance on Maltese commemorative coins.

Obverse

Depicts the coat of arms of Malta between 1964 and 1975, with the state name below.

The coat of arms of Malta between 1964 and 1975, adopted upon independence, featured a vertically divided shield of white and red, reflecting the national flag, with a blue canton bearing the George Cross in the upper hoist of the white field—symbolizing the bravery of the Maltese people during World War II. The shield was crowned with a gold mural crown, representing Malta's historic fortifications and self-governance. It was flanked by two supporters: a dolphin on the left, symbolizing Malta's close ties to the sea, and a Maltese cross-topped trident on the right, reflecting maritime strength and identity. This coat of arms embodied the island’s sovereign status, military heritage, and strategic maritime character until it was replaced in 1975.

VERTUTE ET CONSTANTIA
MALTA

Reverse

Depicts a formal portrait of Temi Zammit facing left. His name is inscribed above the portrait, dividing the denomination, which is accompanied by the pound symbol (£). The year of issue appears behind his head, while the years of his birth and death are positioned below the portrait.

Designer: Pietro Giampaoli

TEMI ZAMMIT
£M1 1973
1864-1935

Edge

1 Lira (1 Pound)

Temi Zammit

KM# 19
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.987
Weight 10 g
Diameter 32.2 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Malta Mint

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Pattern

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