{"id":25419,"date":"2026-01-24T17:38:14","date_gmt":"2026-01-24T16:38:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.2euros.org\/non-classifiee\/2026-malta-the-pharaoh-hound\/"},"modified":"2026-06-13T04:10:23","modified_gmt":"2026-06-13T02:10:23","slug":"2026-malta-the-pharaoh-hound","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.2euros.org\/en\/2-euro-commemorative-malta\/2026-malta-the-pharaoh-hound\/","title":{"rendered":"2026 – Malta – The Pharaoh Hound"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Introduction<\/h2>\n\n

In 2026, Malta will issue a \u20ac2 commemorative coin dedicated to the Pharaoh Hound<\/strong>, an iconic dog breed of the Maltese archipelago. Locally known as “Il-Kelb tal-Fenek<\/strong>,” this dog is a living symbol of the country’s cultural and hunting heritage. Historically used for rabbit hunting, it embodies agility, loyalty, and elegance. With this coin, Malta pays tribute to a breed closely linked to its national identity. The coin thus underscores the importance of preserving rural and animal traditions deeply rooted in the country’s history. <\/p>\n\n

Coin Description<\/h2>\n\n

The obverse of this coin depicts, at its center, the noble silhouette of a Pharaoh Hound, standing in profile. Its upright posture, erect ears, and fine musculature convey the breed’s agility and alertness. The finely sculpted body reflects both the lightness and power of this iconic animal. Furthermore, the carefully engraved anatomical details emphasize the unique morphology of the Pharaoh Hound. <\/p>\n\n

The upper right corner features the Maltese inscription \u201cIL-KELB TAL-FENEK<\/strong>,\u201d which translates to \u201cthe rabbit-hunting dog<\/strong>.\u201d This traditional name reflects the animal\u2019s historical role in Malta. Below, the issuing country, \u201cMALTA<\/strong>,\u201d is indicated, along with the year \u201c2026<\/strong>.\u201d The artist\u2019s initials, \u201cN.G<\/strong>.\u201d, are discreetly placed to the left of the dog\u2019s front paws. The coin\u2019s outer edge is adorned with the twelve stars of the European Union<\/strong>, signifying Malta\u2019s membership in the Eurozone. <\/p>\n\n

The piece’s aesthetic is characterized by its simplicity and balance. The dog sits alone at the center, in a minimalist setting, enhancing the visual impact of its silhouette. Furthermore, the use of a neutral background focuses attention on the canine figure. The simplicity of the composition reinforces the natural elegance of this rare and prized breed. <\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n

In summary, the 2-euro coin issued by Malta in 2026 pays tribute to the Pharaoh Hound<\/strong>, an iconic dog of Maltese heritage. It highlights an ancient breed, still raised and respected for its physical and behavioral qualities. Consequently, this coin celebrates an essential facet of rural Maltese culture. Moreover, the faithful and understated graphic representation does justice to the animal’s nobility. In addition, the inscription in the Maltese language reinforces the coin’s connection to Maltese identity. Ultimately, this commemorative coin constitutes a lasting tribute to the age-old relationship between humans and animals within the specific context of Malta. <\/p>\n\n

Issuing Country:<\/strong><\/td>\"\"<\/td><\/tr>
Issue Date:<\/strong><\/td>February 2026<\/td><\/tr>
Total Mintage:<\/strong><\/td>138.000<\/td><\/tr>
including Proof:<\/td>3.000<\/td><\/tr>
including BU:<\/td>30.000<\/td><\/tr>
including UNC:<\/td>105.000<\/td><\/tr>
Engraver:<\/strong><\/td>Maria Anna Frisone<\/td><\/tr>
Edge:<\/strong><\/td>\"\"<\/td><\/tr>
Rarity:<\/strong><\/td><\/td><\/tr>
Official Journal:<\/strong><\/td>To be defined<\/a><\/td><\/tr>
My Collection:<\/strong><\/td>[cbxwpbookmarkbtn]<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n

Do you want to know the technical specifications of this coin? Feel free to visit the page dedicated to the specifications of a 2-euro coin<\/a>. \n<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Introduction In 2026, Malta will issue a \u20ac2 commemorative coin dedicated to the Pharaoh Hound, an iconic dog breed of the Maltese archipelago. Locally known as “Il-Kelb tal-Fenek,” this dog is a living symbol of […]<\/a><\/p>\n

\n My collection<\/span>\n