Obverse. Photo © Coincraft
  • 10 Kwacha 2010, Malawi, Birds of Prey, Andean Condor
  • 10 Kwacha 2010, Malawi, Birds of Prey, Andean Condor
Description

The Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) is a South American New World vulture and is the only member of the genus Vultur. It is found in the Andes mountains and adjacent Pacific coasts of western South America. With a maximum wingspan of 3.3 m (10 ft 10 in) and weight of 15 kg (33 lb), the Andean condor is one of the largest flying birds in the world, and is generally considered to be the largest bird of prey in the world.

It is a large black vulture with a ruff of white feathers surrounding the base of the neck and, especially in the male, large white patches on the wings. The head and neck are nearly featherless, and are a dull red color, which may flush and therefore change color in response to the bird's emotional state. In the male, there is a wattle on the neck and a large, dark red comb or caruncle on the crown of the head. The female condor is smaller than the male, an exception to the usual sexual dimorphism seen in birds of prey.

Obverse

Depicts the coat of arms of Malawi dividing the date, country name above, and denomination below.

Malawi's coat of arms is based on Nyasaland's earlier heraldic arms. It features a shield supported by a lion and a leopard, standing on a representation of Mount Mulanje. The shield is divided into three parts: wavy lines symbolizing water, a central stripe with a lion representing strength, and a rising sun, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. Above the shield is a fish eagle in front of a rising sun, symbolizing freedom. The scroll below the shield bears the national motto, "Unity and Freedom," reflecting Malawi's goals of harmony and independence.

REPUBLIC OF MALAWI
20 10
UNITY AND FREEDOM
10 KWACHA

Reverse

Depicts the multicolored Andean condor soaring on mountain updrafts within a circle surrounded by the inscription of the series and her name below.

BIRDS OF PREY
ANDEAN CONDOR

Edge

10 Kwacha

Republic
KM#
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver Plated Cupronickel
Weight 50 g
Diameter 50 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

Related coins

Republic, Crested Caracara

Birds of Prey

Silver Plated Cupronickel, 50 g, ⌀ 50 mm
Republic, Madagascar Fish Eagle

Birds of Prey

Silver Plated Cupronickel, 50 g, ⌀ 50 mm
Republic, Harpy Eagle

Birds of Prey

Silver Plated Cupronickel, 50 g, ⌀ 50 mm