Obverse: The coat of arms of the Order of Malta is depicted on the coin. The words "SOVRANO OSPEDALIERO ORDINE DI MALTA" (lit. Sovereign Military Order of Malta) are carved around it in a semicircle. The year "2005" and the denomination "500 LIRAS" are indicated at the bottom of the coin. .
Reverse: Pope John Paul II is depicted on the reverse of the coin.