Malta 10 Euro 2017 Operation Pedestal

In 1940 Italy declared war on Great Britain. Malta was then a British colony. Virtually the entire area in and around the Mediterranean Sea came under German-Italian control, but Malta remained under British control. German and Italian aircraft bombarded the island continuously and in the summer of 1942 Malta was nearing defeat. To save the strategically important island the Allies sent a huge convoy under the codename æPedestalÆ. Malta had to be saved no matter the cost. Operation Pedestal, the codename of the convoy, was protected by 39 warships. Despite the many escort vessels, only one third of the 14 cargo ships reached the island. It was very important that enough food and fuel reached the island for it, and the inhabitants, to survive. Many consider this as a turning point in World War II. To commemorate that 75 years ago this convoy reached the port of Valletta, Malta has issued a special 10 euro coin. On the face of the coin is a depiction of the British convoy, as well as an image of the George Cros s. This medal is a British distinction issued to men and women who have played an important act under dangerous conditions and is second only to the Victoria Cross. The medal was presented to the island of Malta. Furthermore, the text ôOperation Pedestal - Konvoj Ta' S.Marijaö and the value of 10 Euro is shown along with the text æThe Malta George CrossÆ and the description 75th anniversary 1942 - 2017. On the reverse of the coin is the Coat of Arms of Malta, the country name Malta and the year 2017. The coin is presented in a luxury package and is supplied with a certificate.