The 2011 Malta 2 euro commemorative coin honours the milestone of the nation’s first elected representatives in 1849. The national side features a representation of the Council of Government, which was established under British rule to allow for the election of Maltese representatives for the first time. This constitutional development marked a significant step in the evolution of Malta’s political history and the gradual move towards self-governance. The design highlights the importance of this legislative body in the country's democratic progression, symbolising the early voice of the Maltese people in their own administration. This coin was issued as a standard circulation piece in 2011 with a total mintage of 430,000 coins.