The Central Bank of Malta has issued a special commemorative silver coin to mark the 25th anniversary of the Malta International Fireworks Festival. This initiative, which is the result of a collaboration between the Central Bank of Malta and the Malta Tourism Authority, highlights the ”enduring significance of fireworks in Maltese heritage,” the MTA said.
The coin, limited to 1,000 pieces, was launched on on Monday, at the Central Bank of Malta. The event was attended by the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Malta Tourism Authority, Mr. Carlo Micallef and Dr Charles Mangion respectively, the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Malta responsible for monetary policy, Ms Rita Schembri, and the Bank’s Chief Officer responsible for banking operations, Mr Benoit Waelkens.
Struck in 0.999 silver, the issue has a face value of €10, weighs 31.10 grams, and has a diameter of 38.61 mm. On the reverse the coins depict fireworks over the Grand Harbour, the backdrop of the Malta International Fireworks Festival.
The fireworks are in colour to resemble the colourful bursts that lighten up the sky during the festival. The obverse of the coins carries the coat of arms of the Republic of Malta, the year of issue and the face value.
The reverse of the coins was engraved by Pannos Goutzemisis, while the obverse was designed and engraved by Noel Galea Bason. The coins were struck at the Royal Dutch Mint.
The MTA said that the commemorative coin also pays tribute to the long-standing history of fireworks in Malta, symbolising a century-old tradition deeply embedded in the nation’s cultural identity.
The MTA said that beautifully designed, the coin serves as both a collector’s item and a meaningful keepsake for fireworks enthusiasts and visitors alike. It offers a unique opportunity to promote this historic milestone on both a local and international level. Fireworks remain central to the Maltese festa, which in 2023 was recognised by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The 25th anniversary edition of the Malta International Fireworks Festival has kicked off in Nadur, Gozo, last Saturday. The celebrations will then continue across the iconic Grand Harbour culminating in a grand finale on the 30th of April.
This year’s festival will feature approximately 40 local and international fireworks teams, showcasing spectacular pyrotechnic displays that celebrate both tradition and innovation. The event continues to play a vital role in attracting visitors to the Maltese Islands outside the peak summer season.
Photo: MTA