Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 5 Cents 1972-1981, KM# 10, Malta
  • 5 Cents 1972-1981, KM# 10, Malta
Description

Engraver: Christopher Ironside

Obverse

Depicts an altar from the Ħaġar Qim temple in the middle, on the upper edge the country name between two dolphins, on the lower edge the year of issue also between two dolphins from the coat of arms of Malta.

One of the most notable features within the Ħaġar Qim temple complex is its intricately carved altar, believed to have served a ritualistic or ceremonial function. Crafted from large limestone blocks, the altar is decorated with spiral motifs and pitted patterns, which are commonly associated with fertility and nature worship in prehistoric Maltese culture. The precise function of the altar remains a subject of speculation, but its prominent placement within the temple suggests it played a central role in the spiritual life of the Neolithic community that built it.

Ħaġar Qim is a megalithic temple complex located on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea on the southern coast of Malta, dating back to around 3600–3200 BCE. It is one of the best-preserved and most impressive of Malta’s prehistoric sites, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Constructed from massive globigerina limestone blocks, some weighing several tons, the site features apsidal rooms, a central corridor, and evidence of solar alignment. Ħaġar Qim offers crucial insights into the island's temple-building civilization and its sophisticated understanding of engineering and ritual practice.

MALTA
1972

Reverse

Depicts a large value in the middle; along the top edge a wreath of grape leaves.

5
CENTS

Edge

5 Cents

KM# 10 Schön# 10
Characteristics
Material Cupronickel
Weight 5.65 g
Diameter 23.6 mm
Thickness 1.8 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mints
Franklin Mint (FM)
Royal Mint

Related coins

Cupronickel, 3.51 g, ⌀ 20 mm

Cupronickel, 3.51 g, ⌀ 20 mm