IL-KELB TAL-FENEK means “rabbit hunting dog” in Maltese. The coin, part of the series honoring native breeds, celebrates the Pharaoh Hound. This breed was chosen because it is the national breed of Malta. This elegant and majestic sighthound is prized for its speed, excellent eyesight and hearing, as well as its playfulness and intelligence. Therefore, it is traditionally used for rabbit hunting and is considered an important part of Maltese cultural heritage. Despite what its name suggests, the “Pharaoh Hound” is a native Maltese dog breed. Recent research has confirmed this once again. The Pharaoh Hound is (usually) rust-brown in color and is ideally seen with a white tip on its tail. An adult male is about 56 centimeters tall, while an adult female is around 53 centimeters. The Pharaoh Hound has a very graceful yet powerful gait. Originally, it was used for rabbit hunting. Today, the Pharaoh Hound is mainly kept as a companion dog.