2-euro collectors have been familiar with the Principality of Monaco at least since the issue of the commemorative coin “Gracia Patricia” (Grace Kelly) in 2007. The prices for the coin virtually skyrocketed. Some even refer to it as the most expensive 2-euro commemorative coin of all times. Of course, not everyone can own such a piece. But by now, the principality has issued many other commemorative coins that are still affordable on the secondary market. However, collectors of 2-euro coins from Monaco know only too well that they are dealing with a completely different price range. Some pieces that didn’t make big headlines but are still highly interesting will be presented in this overview.
2-Euro Circulation Coins
All circulation and commemorative coins of the country are produced by the French mint Monnaie de Paris. The principality on the French Mediterranean coast isn’t large. And the same is true regarding the mintage figures of its coins. Therefore, 2-euro coins are unlikely to be found in other countries. The reverse design (RV) meets the requirements set for all euro countries. The obverse depicts the reigning prince. On coins from 2001 to 2004 you can see Prince Rainier III, on coins issued after 2006 Prince Albert II. Moreover there is the mint mark of the French mint and the one of the chief engraver. 2-euro coins for Monaco aren’t produced every year. In 2005, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2013, for example, no new 2-euro circulation coins were issued. Therefore, a coin catalogue is not only very practical but also extremely helpful.
Just like 2-euro commemorative coins, all 2-euro circulation coins consist of a ring made of cupronickel. The core is made of nickel brass with a nickel core (CuNi / Ni, CuNiZn plated). All pieces can slightly be attracted by a magnet at the centre.
Technical Specifications
- Weight: 8.50 g
- Diameter: 25.75 mm
- Reeded edge
- All Monaco coins feature the edge inscription “2” followed by two alternately inverted stars in addition to the reeded edge.
Particularities
Coloured or gilded pieces are not official issues. They have been doctored and lost their former value as currency. You should also refrain from purchasing one of the many offered “patterns”, no matter the motif. Don’t buy trash – only coins that you can find in a coin catalogue. Always do your homework before making a purchase.
Mint Error Coins
So far, no mint error coins have been found. Nevertheless, look for minor punching errors, die cracks and rotated die error coins. The position of the mint mark of the French mint and the chief engraver may differ from year to year. These issues aren’t error coins.
Appraisal
These coins can hardly be found in circulation, you should look for offers on the secondary market right away. Depending on the year, prices for mint state specimens start at 5 euros.
Joint Issues of the Eurozone
Monaco isn’t part of the European Union (EU), so no joint issues were minted by the principality. Although you can find genuine 2-euro coins with coloured stickers on the obverse time and again, these pieces were manipulated. They aren’t worth more than 2 euros.
20-Year UN Membership, 2013
The Principality of Monaco joined the UN in 1993. The motif shows a dove of peace with an olive branch, in addition a world map. To the left and the right are the mint marks. At the top the arched legend with the country’s name “MONACO”, below “1993 ADMISSION À L’ONU”.
Particularities
Coloured or gilded pieces are not official issues. They have been doctored and lost their former value as currency. Don’t buy pieces that are offered in folders or cases. Such packaging was made by private individuals.
Mint Error Coins
So far, no mint error coins have been found. Nevertheless, look for minor punching errors, die cracks and rotated die error coins.
Appraisal
These coins cannot be found in circulation. Prices for mint state specimens start at 9 euros on the secondary market. However, you should not spend more than 15 euros on such a coin right now.
Unfortunately, the production of 2-euro commemorative coins of mint state quality for circulation purposes was stopped in 2015. There are only Proof issues now. This decision is very unfortunate for the collecting world, and many don’t understand why it came about.
In the online database Cosmos of Collectibles you can find all 2-euro coins of the Principality of Monaco.
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The author numiscontrol already dealt with the rarities among 2-euro commemorative coins of other countries, too. Here you can read his articles on coins from
- Slovakia and
Here he explains if and why euro error coins can be investment objects.
Find out more about our author numiscontrol, alias Reiner Graff, in our Who’s Who.
The collecting expert made it his mission to introduce beginners to the world of coin collecting – here you can read his series “Coin Care in Simple Terms”.
