The official currency of Malta is the Euro (€). The Euro became the national currency of Malta in 2008, after the country adopted it as part of its commitment to join the European Union (EU). Prior to this, the Maltese Lira (₤) was the official currency from 1972 onwards, replacing the Maltese pound.
The introduction of the Euro in Malta brought significant advantages to the country’s economy. It facilitated easier trade and transactions, as the Euro is widely accepted across the European Union. Additionally, it eliminated the need for exchanging currencies among EU member states, making travel and business operations more efficient.
Despite the switch to the Euro, the Maltese people have preserved their affinity for their previous currency, the Maltese Lira. The Maltese Lira, which was in circulation for more than three decades, is still remembered by many Maltese citizens. This fondness for their former currency is evident in the continued references and use of the Lira as a form of nostalgia. Some souvenir shops even sell replica Maltese Lira notes, allowing tourists and locals to reminisce about the past.
Prior to the Maltese Lira, Malta had its own distinct currency known as the Maltese pound. The Maltese pound, which was introduced during the British colonial period, was in circulation from 1825 until its replacement by the Maltese Lira in 1972. It was equivalent in value to the British pound sterling, as Malta was a British colony at the time.
The history of currency in Malta is not limited to the Maltese pound and Lira. Throughout the centuries, Malta also utilized other currencies due to its strategic location and interactions with various civilizations. During the Arab rule, Byzantine coins were used as a form of currency. Under the Knights of St John, the currency system consisted of various currencies, including Venetian, French, and Spanish coins.
Another interesting aspect of Malta’s currency history is the tradition of issuing commemorative coins. Since joining the Eurozone, Malta has continued the tradition of releasing limited edition coins to commemorate significant events, anniversaries, or cultural milestones. These coins are highly sought after by collectors and serve as a unique reflection of Malta’s heritage.
In conclusion, the official currency of Malta is the Euro, which was adopted in 2008 following the country’s membership in the European Union. However, the Maltese Lira and the Maltese pound hold a special place in the hearts of the Maltese people, serving as reminders of their past. The history of currency in Malta is a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and its interconnectedness with various civilizations throughout time. Whether it be the Maltese Lira, the Maltese pound, or the Euro, the currency of Malta is an integral part of its identity and history.