Obverse. Photo © InAsta S.p.A.
  • 20 Kwacha 2010, Schön# 196.3, Malawi, Palaces of St. Petersburg, Catherine Palace
  • 20 Kwacha 2010, Schön# 196.3, Malawi, Palaces of St. Petersburg, Catherine Palace
Description

Founded by Peter the Great in 1703, Saint Petersburg is not only a city rich in beauty and attractions, but it also served as the capital of Imperial Russia under the rule of the tsars. This has left the city with a remarkable historical legacy and an array of grand palaces from the tsarist era. Despite the fall of Tsarist Russia, many of these opulent structures remain, now preserved as key tourist attractions. The St. Petersburg palace coin series offers a glimpse into the lives of the city’s aristocratic families, such as the Yusupovs, Stroganovs, and Sheremetyevs, each palace holding its own secrets and stories.

Obverse

Depicts the coat of arms of Malawi, date below within a circle, country name above and denomination below surrounded by a beaded circle.

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
UNITY AND FREEDOM
2010
MWK 20

Reverse

Depicts a multicolored blue and white Catherine Palace façade, the center entrance are eight Corinthian columns plus four taller ones above the portico, surrounding the double staircase are marble statues decorated by the upper Fence of the golden gate above the palace, the series title "Palaces of St. Petersburg" above and palace name below.

The Catherine Palace, located in Tsarskoye Selo (now Pushkin), just south of St. Petersburg, Russia, is a stunning example of Rococo architecture and was the summer residence of Russian tsars. Initially established by Catherine I, wife of Peter the Great, the palace underwent major expansions and renovations, particularly under Empress Elizabeth, who commissioned architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli to create its iconic blue and gold facade. The palace boasts opulent interiors, including the famous Amber Room and the Great Hall, which were adorned with lavish stucco, gilding, and elaborate artworks. During World War II, the palace suffered extensive damage, but a meticulous restoration effort, begun in 1957, has revived much of its grandeur, making it one of Russia's most treasured landmarks.

PALACES OF ST. PETERSBURG
Catherine Palace

Edge

20 Kwacha

Republic
Schön# 196.3
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.999
Weight 31.1 g
Diameter 45 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

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