Euro Coins And Bills are the physical currency of the Eurozone, used daily by millions across Europe. While euro banknotes are uniform across the Eurozone, euro coins feature a common European side and a national side specific to the issuing country. This article delves into the fascinating designs of euro coins, focusing on their common and national characteristics.
The common side of euro coins is standardized for all Eurozone members, ensuring recognizability across borders. Designed by Luc Luycx of the Royal Belgian Mint, the common face has evolved over time. Coins of €2, €1, 50, 20, and 10 cents initially displayed the European Union before its 2004 enlargement. Since 2007, these denominations showcase a geographical representation of Europe. Smaller denominations of 5, 2, and 1 cent present Europe on a globe, positioned in relation to Africa and Asia.
Despite the variations in national sides which reflect the culture and history of each issuing country, all euro coins remain legal tender throughout the euro area. Let’s examine the current designs of each euro coin denomination:
1 Cent Coin
The 1 cent euro coin showcases on its national side the Western (Obradoiro) facade of the Cathedral of Santiago of Compostela, a renowned Spanish landmark. The design is attributed to Garcilaso Rollán.
2 Cent Coin
Similar to the 1 cent coin, the 2 cent euro coin also features the Western (Obradoiro) facade of the Cathedral of Santiago of Compostela on its national side, designed by Garcilaso Rollán.
5 Cent Coin
Continuing the series, the 5 cent euro coin presents the Western (Obradoiro) facade of the Cathedral of Santiago of Compostela on its national side, with the same designer, Garcilaso Rollán.
10 Cent Coin
The 10 cent euro coin’s national side displays a portrait of Miguel de Cervantes, the celebrated Spanish writer, designed by Begoña Castellanos.
20 Cent Coin
The 20 cent euro coin also honors Miguel de Cervantes on its national side, maintaining the design by Begoña Castellanos.
50 Cent Coin
The 50 cent euro coin continues to feature Miguel de Cervantes on its national side, consistent with the 10 and 20 cent denominations and designed by Begoña Castellanos.
1 Euro Coin
The 1 euro coin showcases on its national side the effigy of His Majesty the King, a design by Luis José Díaz.
2 Euro Coin
Similarly, the 2 euro coin features the effigy of His Majesty the King on its national side, also designed by Luis José Díaz.
Each Eurozone country has the autonomy to select the design for the national side of their euro coins. However, to ensure universal recognition, every national side must incorporate the twelve stars of the European flag, an identifier for the issuing country, and the year of issue. This blend of common and national elements makes euro coins a unique representation of European unity and diversity. Beyond these standard coins, commemorative 2 euro coins are also issued, celebrating specific events or anniversaries, and are also valid across the Eurozone. Whether common or national, all euro coins serve as valid currency throughout the euro area, facilitating seamless transactions across member states.
