This distinctive 0 Euro souvenir banknote celebrates Le Thot and its iconic woolly mammoth, making it a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts of European memorabilia. Issued in 2017, this banknote encapsulates both natural history and European landmarks in a visually appealing design.
Obverse: The Woolly Mammoth of Le Thot
The obverse side of the banknote prominently features a detailed depiction of a woolly mammoth. This striking image pays homage to the prehistoric creature and likely references a specific location or attraction named “Le Thot,” potentially known for its association with mammoths or paleontology. The text “LE THOT MAMMOUTH LAINEUX” is clearly inscribed, reinforcing the central theme of this unique souvenir. Alongside the mammoth, the banknote includes standard Euro souvenir markings such as “EUROSOUVENIR,” “2017-1,” and the “0 EURO SOUV ENIR” denomination, ensuring its status within the Euro souvenir banknote series. The signature “R. FAILLE C.E.O. UEKN” indicates Richard Faille, a key figure associated with the Euro souvenir concept.
Reverse: A Tour of Europe’s Iconic Landmarks
The reverse of the “Euro Thot” banknote offers a visual tour of Europe’s most celebrated monuments. Featured are representations of:
- Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate
- London’s Big Ben
- Paris’s Eiffel Tower
- Rome’s Colosseum
- Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia
- Brussels’ Manneken Pis
These iconic landmarks are instantly recognizable and symbolize the unity and cultural richness of Europe. Adding a touch of artistic flair, the reverse also includes a portrait of the Mona Lisa on the right side, further enhancing the banknote’s European identity and appeal. The lettering “0€ DASBRANENBUGERTOR BIGBEN COLOSSEO LATOUREIFFEL SAGRADAFAMILIA MANNEKEN PIS IMPRIME PAR OBERTHUR FIDUCIAIRE 0 EURO SOUV ENIR” clearly labels the denomination and acknowledges Oberthur Fiduciaire as the printer, a reputable French security printing company.
Key Features and Specifications
This “euro thot” woolly mammoth banknote possesses several notable characteristics:
- Location: France, reflecting its origin and the likely location of “Le Thot.”
- Category: Souvenir banknote, specifically within the Zero-euro banknotes series, popular among collectors.
- Year of Issue: 2017, indicating its release year for collectors to track.
- Value: 0 Euro, signifying its non-currency status as a souvenir item.
- Currency: Euro, placing it within the Eurozone themed collectibles.
- Material: Paper, consistent with standard banknote production.
- Dimensions: 135 × 74 mm, a typical size for Euro souvenir banknotes.
- Shape: Rectangular, the standard banknote shape.
- Serial Number: Features a unique serial number, denoted as ‘N’ in the specifications.
- Signature: Richard Faille (RF), adding to its collectibility and authentication.
- Printer: Oberthur Fiduciaire, assuring quality and security printing standards.
This 0 Euro Le Thot Mammouth Laineux banknote is not just a piece of paper; it’s a tangible souvenir that encapsulates European culture, history, and the allure of collecting. Its Numista Rarity index of 91 suggests it’s a relatively sought-after item among collectors, making it a valuable addition to any collection of Euro souvenir banknotes or mammoth-themed memorabilia.
