The Central Bank of Malta’s “Maltese Honey Bee” coin (KM#273) won the Best Crown Coin category at the Coin of the Year (COTY) Awards for 2024-dated coins. The coin is a reimagination of its first collector coin, which also celebrated the Maltese Islands’ native honeybee.
The honeybee (Apis mellifera ruttneri) plays a crucial role in the pollination process and honey production. The winning coin was designed by Natalia Danysz and minted in partnership with the Germania Mint.
The obverse showcases a high-relief honey bee against the backdrop of a honeycomb. The reverse displays the coat of arms of the Central Bank of Malta, elegantly framed by a honeycomb-inspired design.
The Maltese Honey Bee coin has an antique finish and is composed of Ruthenium plated silver (.999) with gold plating. Mintage is limited to 1,500 pieces. The coin measures 45 mm in diameter and weighs 62.2 grams.