We had a look at Germania Mint’s Golden Eagle bullion coin series a few times in the past, the last time back in July when we had images of a sample one-ounce bullion coin that Germania Mint had kindly sent us. The design is one that doesn’t change on a yearly basis, mainly because, unlike most of their range, this one is issued for Malta, and nations generally, although not always, prefer fewer changes than independent mints do, as the coin is representative of that nation.

The coin design is a Maltese icon, with the eagle symbolising strength, power, and freedom, and the snake, wisdom and knowledge. The allegory reflects the ideals upheld by the Knights Hospitaller during their rule. Malta has a fantastic history, based as it is in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, going back to ancient times. The famous Maltese Cross is on the obverse, also attributed to the Knights Hospitaller, with its eight points marking the eight obligations of the Knights – to live in truth, have faith, repent one’s sins, give proof of humility, love justice, be merciful, be sincere and wholehearted, and endure persecution.

This variant of the coin looks incredibly impressive, taking the base design and striking it in a full kilogram of silver. The coin is then ennobled in a mix of dark ruthenium plating, and yellow gold gilding, which creates a fine contrast. It’s all quite extravagant in appearance, and the mintage of just 100 pieces also means it’s quite the scarce collector’s piece, especially given Malta isn’t a prolific issuer of numismatics. Boxed with a COA, this impressive piece is available to order now.