Monaco 2012 500th anniversary of the establishment of Monaco’s sovereignty by Lucien I Grimaldi
500th anniversary of the establishment of
Monaco’s sovereignty by Lucien I Grimaldi
The early history of Monaco is primarily concerned with the
protective and strategic value of the Rock of Monaco, the area's chief geological
landmark, which served first as a shelter for ancient peoples and later as a
fortress. Part of Liguria's history since the
fall of the Roman Empire, from
the 14th to the early 15th century the area was contested for primarily
political reasons. Since that point, excepting a brief period of French occupation, it has remained steadily
under the control of the House of Grimaldi.
The inner part of the coin shows a portrait of
Lucien I Grimaldi, in profile, facing to the left. The inscription “1512
SOUVERAINETE DE MONACO 2012” forms an arch around the portrait along the outer
edge of the inner part of the coin, flanked by two ornamental diamonds, as well
as by the horn of plenty (mintmark of Monnaie de Paris) and the “fleurette”
(hallmark of the engraving workshop) to the left and right, respectively, at
the bottom of the portrait. The founder’s name, “Lucien Ier”, is given above the
mintmark. The coin’s outer ring bears the 12 stars of the European Union.
Weight - 8.5 g.
Quality - UNC (Uncirculated)
Diameter - 25.75 mm.
Composition - Bimetallic - nickel brass clad
nickel center in copper-nickel ring
Circulation - 100'000 pcs.
Country of origin - Monaco
Year of release - 2012
