Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 10 Kwacha 2005, KM# 83, Malawi, Endangered Wildlife, Pygmy Hippopotamus
  • 10 Kwacha 2005, KM# 83, Malawi, Endangered Wildlife, Pygmy Hippopotamus
Description

The pygmy hippopotamus or pygmy hippo (Choeropsis liberiensis) is a small hippopotamid which is native to the forests and swamps of West Africa, primarily in Liberia, with small populations in Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Ivory Coast. It has been extirpated from Nigeria.

The pygmy hippo is reclusive and nocturnal. It is one of only two extant species in the family Hippopotamidae, the other being its much larger relative, the common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) or Nile hippopotamus. The pygmy hippopotamus displays many terrestrial adaptations, but like the common hippo, it is semiaquatic and relies on water to keep its skin moist and its body temperature cool. Behaviors such as mating and giving birth may occur in water or on land. The pygmy hippo is herbivorous, feeding on ferns, broad-leaved plants, grasses, and fruits it finds in the forests.

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 05
UNITY AND FREEDOM
10 KWACHA

Reverse

Depicts a pygmy hippopotamus in a swamp with grasses, the inscription of series above.

ENDANGERED WILDLIFE

Edge

10 Kwacha

Republic
KM# 83 Schön# A75
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver Plated Cupronickel
Weight 23.5 g
Diameter 39 mm
Thickness 2.72 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal

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