On 30 September 2003, a decision by the European Commission caused a particular stir in the numismatic world.
With the agreement of the euro-area governments, the issuance of 2-euro commemorative coins was to be permitted from 2004 onwards — just two years after the introduction of euro cash. Previously, a restriction agreed among all euro states had prevented any changes to national coin designs, on the grounds that the public needed time to familiarise itself with the new currency.
The official EU statement on the new decision read: "The almost two years of experience with euro coins shows that they have been well received by the European public and that their diversity has aroused the interest of many citizens of Europe." It continued: "The €2 coin is best suited as a commemorative coin. It is attractive and, given its large diameter, well suited to carrying images.
Moreover, this coin employs a highly sophisticated bimetallic technology and its further technical features make it highly resistant to counterfeiting. Appropriate occasions for the issuance of these commemorative coins might include political events that represent milestones in European integration, or exceptional sporting events such as the Olympic Games.
In addition, as has already been done in some countries in the past, such coins may be issued to honour individuals whose life's work is of central importance." 2-euro commemorative coins have already earned a reputation as the "new 2-mark pieces" — the old 2-DM coin was long regarded as an unofficial commemorative, though those pieces were typically struck over several years.
The following additional rules apply to the striking of 2-euro special coins:
Only one special coin per country may be issued per year
The coins must carry the same specifications and European side as the standard circulation coins
The mintage is limited
- 2-euro commemorative coins are, unlike other commemoratives, legal tender throughout the entire euro area
The full EU Commission recommendation is available here.
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