History of coins · 2002
2002: Euro coins arrive
On 1 January 2002, euro coins and banknotes enter circulation in twelve countries – each country with its own national side.
The euro had existed as book money since 1999; on 1 January 2002 coins and notes arrived in twelve countries at once. All euro coins share a common side, while the other side is designed by each issuing country – from the Spanish king to the Irish harp.
Since 2004, countries may issue 2-euro commemorative coins; the first came from Greece for the Athens Olympics. Almost all euro coins are worth face value. A few issues with very small mintages – for example from Monaco, the Vatican or San Marino – trade above face value, mostly in uncirculated condition or in original packaging.
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