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A 2 euro commemorative coin of the Republic of Malta, issued in 2011 in a circulation of 430,000 copies. The first in the series "Constitutional History of Malta" (5 coins, 2011-2015). It was minted at the Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris) - the edge contains the mark "F". Bimetallic, diameter 25.75 mm, weight 8.5 g.
Obverse
The center of the coin depicts a hand dropping a ballot paper into a ballot box - a symbol of the democratic process and representative government. At the top, in an arc, is the inscription "MALTA - First elected representatives 1849". At the bottom, the year of issue "2011". On the outer ring are the 12 five-pointed stars of the European Union.
Reverse
The reverse is the common side of the 2 euro coins of the second type, designed by Luc Luix (Royal Belgian Mint). It depicts a map of Europe as a single continent without internal borders - a symbol of European unity. On the left - a large denomination "2" and the inscription "EURO", on the right - a map with six thin horizontal lines in the background. On the outer ring are the 12 stars of the European Union. The band - with fine ribbing, with the Maltese cross and the inscription "★ 2 ★".
Historical context
The first elections of representatives in Malta were held in 1849 - this was a significant event in the constitutional history of the island. At that time, Malta was a British colony (since 1814, following the Treaty of Paris). In 1849, the British government provided the Maltese with the first limited form of representative government through the creation of the Council of Government, a bicameral advisory body to the Governor. Eight Maltese members were elected to it by direct election (although suffrage was limited by property qualification). This was the first constitution of 1849, adopted by Lord Chancellor Stanley. Among the first representatives were Giovanni Antonio Velloi, Filippo Sceberras, Camillo Cissetti. Although the elections concerned only a small part of society, they became the basis for the further evolution of democracy in Malta, which culminated in independence in 1964 and the proclamation of a Republic in 1974.