2025 Malta €2 Coin Issue - Indigenous Species: Il-Gendus Malti (The Maltese Ox)

• Mint: Royal Dutch Mint
• Denomination: €2
• Quality: BU
• Issue limit: 40,000
• Alloy: Base Metal
• Diameter: 25.75 mm
• Weight: 8.5 grams
• Design: Maria Anna Frisone/Luc Luycx
• Box/Capsule: No/Blister
• Certificate: Printed folder

Additional Information

Please click here for the official web page in English!

This coin is part of a series dedicated to Maltese walled cities e.g. Mdina and Valletta which are an intrinsic part of Maltese and European cultural heritage.

The term Il‑Ġendus Malti (literally “the Maltese ox” or bull) refers to a traditional indigenous cattle breed from Malta. This breed, also known as Il‑Baqra Maltija, was historically used as a working animal in agriculture due to its large frame, gentle temperament, and relatively short horns. Animals typically stood between 152 cm and 180 cm at the withers.

Sadly, with the advent of mechanisation, the breed nearly vanished: by the late 1980s, only a handful of closely related individuals remained. Although conservation efforts have restored a small population—possibly up to 97.5% genetic purity—no 100% pure specimens survive today. The total number of Maltese‑type oxen remains extremely low, estimated at under 20 individuals.

Despite their dwindling numbers, these oxen remain culturally significant in Malta and it is the need to raise awareness of the breed’s historic agricultural importance and the need for its preservation

The obverse’s outer ring bears the 12 stars of the European flag.