🇲🇹 1979 Malta 1 Pound Banknote – Gardjola Watchtower & National Identity
Pick# 34b | Numista# 206778
Issued by the Central Bank of Malta (Bank Ċentrali ta’ Malta), the 1979 1 Pound banknote commemorates a defining moment in Maltese history—the complete withdrawal of British military forces and the affirmation of Malta’s neutral and independent republic. This note is part of the third series of Maltese currency and showcases national landmarks and symbols that reflect the island’s cultural pride and sovereignty.
🖼️ Design Highlights
Obverse: Features the iconic Gardjola Watchtower in Senglea, a symbol of vigilance and maritime defense. A map of the Maltese Islands appears in the upper left, while the Coat of Arms of Malta (1975–1988) is displayed at upper right. The phrase “Għall-ġid tal-Maltin, Ġieħ ir-Repubblika” (“For the benefit of the Maltese, Honour to the Republic”) reinforces national unity.
Reverse: Depicts the University of Malta in Msida, representing education and progress. The Maltese Centaury (Widnet il-Baħar), Malta’s national plant, is shown in the lower left corner.
Color Scheme: Warm brown tones on a multicolored underprint, with elegant serif typography and bilingual denominations in Maltese and English.
📌 Key Specifications
Feature Description
Country Malta
Issuer Bank Ċentrali ta’ Malta
Year of Issue 1979 (ND)
Denomination 1 Pound (Lira)
Pick Number P# 34b
Numista Catalog N# 206778
Printer Thomas De La Rue & Co. Ltd., London
Size 137 × 68 mm
Material Paper
Watermark Allegorical head of Melita, personification of Malta
Security Features Watermark, fine-line engraving
Demonetized Yes (withdrawn in 1982)
🎁 Why Collect This Note?
The 1979 Malta 1 Pound note is a compelling artifact of post-independence Malta, ideal for:
Collectors of Mediterranean or post-colonial currency
Enthusiasts of national symbolism and architecture
Gifts for those born in 1979 or with Maltese heritage
With its rich iconography, historical resonance, and elegant design, this note is a standout addition to any world banknote collection.
