The gold proof coin, designed by Marc Spiteri, will cost Lm35 inclusive of VAT but will be legal tender in Malta for Lm25.

Mr Spiteri designed the coin after winning the competition organised by a select committee appointed specifically by the bank. Committee chairman Philip Chirchop said that some 75 entries had been received, of which 22 were chosen for further evaluation.

The winning design was selected from six finalists who satisfied both the technical and aesthetic criteria. The coin has the emblem of Malta, modelled by Noel Galea Bason, and the date of issue (2004) on the obverse side while the reverse shows the Maltese and European flags merged.

The bank’s governor Michael Bonello said: “EU accession is a historic moment for Malta. It is also a landmark for the Central Bank which will become part of the European System of Central Banks – both of which called for a symbolic commemorative token.”

The coin was struck by the Royal Mint in the United Kingdom. It has a diameter of 19.30mm and weighs 3.994 grammes with a finesse of 916.70

It is available for sale from the Malta Coins Distribution Centre at the Bank’s offices in Castille Place and can also be purchased from the bank’s website www.centralbankmalta.com. Collectors and enthusiasts are advised to purchase the coin without delay as only 6,000 have been minted.

For information the public may telephone 2550-0000 or email [email protected]