The Republic of San Marino officially released its highly anticipated second €2 commemorative coin of the year on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. The special issue honors the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi, one of the most significant and revered figures in the history of the Church. With this release, the microstate continues its tradition of celebrating historically and culturally profound themes through numismatics.
The national side of the new €2 coin features an exceptionally detailed and emotionally powerful design depicting Saint Francis of Assisi taming the Wolf of Gubbio. Created by artist Fani Ivanka Taurino, the coin draws on one of the most famous legends from the saint's life, which stands as a timeless symbol of peace, harmony, and profound respect for all creation. At the center of the design, the wolf trustingly extends its snout toward Saint Francis's outstretched hand. The composition is completed by the inscription of the issuing country, "SAN MARINO," the occasion for the issue, "FRANCESCO D'ASSISI," the years "1226 – 2026," and the designer's initials, "F. Taurino." The mintmark "R" of the Italian State Mint (Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato) in Rome appears on the left side of the design. As usual, the outer ring of the coin displays the twelve stars of the European flag.
Saint Francis of Assisi, born in the 12th century as Giovanni Battista Bernardone, founded the Order of Friars Minor (the Franciscans) and lived a life devoted to radical poverty and charity. His deep connection to nature and all living beings, famously expressed in his "Canticle of the Sun," has made him a global symbol of peace to this day. With this release, San Marino honors not only the historical anniversary of his death in October 1226, but also the timeless values of humility and stewardship of creation that remain closely tied to the region's identity.
The total mintage of the new €2 commemorative coin is strictly limited to just 60,000 pieces. As is customary for San Marino's issues, the mintage is split across several collector editions: 52,000 coins will be released in a folder in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) quality. In addition, 4,000 coins in Proof quality and another 4,000 in Reverse Proof quality will be available, each presented in a display case. The coins are available from authorized dealers starting today.
Source: Divisione Filatelica Numismatica San Marino
