San Marino, though not a member of the European Union, uses the euro as its official currency thanks to a monetary agreement with Italy on behalf of the European Community.
San Marino’s euro coins are unique in that each denomination features a different design, unlike most euro coins which have a consistent national side design. All coins include the inscription “San Marino” and the twelve stars of the European Union. The coins are minted in Rome by the Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato (IPZS).
The designs of the first series (2002-2016) featured landmarks and historical figures like the Palazzo Pubblico on the 2 euro coin and Saint Marinus on the 20 cent coin. The second series (2017 onwards) introduced new designs, such as the Second Tower on the 1 euro coin and the Church of St Francis on the 10 cent coin.
Before adopting the euro, San Marino used the Sammarinese Lira, which was pegged to the Italian Lira. San Marino has a history of issuing coins with various designs since 1864.
San Marino’s coins are popular among collectors due to their limited mintage and diverse designs. The coins are produced by the Italian Mint in Rome, and collector series are handled by the Autonomous State Philatelic and Numismatic Company of San Marino. San Marino also regularly issues commemorative coins, including silver, gold, and circulating 2 Euro commemoratives.
What is the coin of San Marino?
Great question! The €1 coin depicts the coat of arms of the Republic of San Marino. The 50-cent coin features the three towers of the city – Guaita, Cesta and Montale.
Does San Marino have its own currency?
Thanks for asking. Although not a member of the European Union, San Marino uses the Euro as its national currency under a special agreement with the Council of the European Union.
What is the 2 euro coin San Marino 2016?
San Marino
Description: The design depicts a portrait of the poet. On the right, in a semi-circle, the dates ‘1616-2016’ and the name of the issuing country ‘San Marino’; on the bottom right, the initials of the artist ‘MB’.
Why does Italy allow San Marino to exist?
During the later phase of the Italian unification process in the 19th century, San Marino served as a refuge for many people persecuted because of their support for unification, including Giuseppe Garibaldi and his wife Anita. Garibaldi allowed San Marino to remain independent.