2 Euro - Albert II (2nd type)

Country of Origin: Monaco

Year of Issue: 2023

Denomination: 2 Euro

Composition: Bi-Metallic: Copper-nickel clad nickel center, Nickel-brass outer ring

2 Euro - Albert II (2nd type)

Brief Description

A bi-metallic 2 Euro coin featuring the portrait of Prince Albert II of Monaco.

Historical Significance

Monaco, though not in the EU, uses the Euro via a monetary agreement. Coins from Monaco are highly sought after by collectors due to their very low mintage compared to larger Eurozone nations. This specific portrait type has been in use since 2006.

Estimated Value

$10-$20 in circulated condition, $25-$45 in uncirculated/UNC condition.

Care Instructions

Handle by the edges only to avoid fingerprint oils. Store in a PVC-free coin holder or capsule. Do not clean or polish, as this significantly reduces numismatic value.

Mint Mark

Cornucopia (Monnaie de Paris) and square Mint Master mark

Mintage & Rarity

Total mintage in 2023 was approximately 356,290. Scarce compared to other Euro countries, but common for Monaco.

Weight & Diameter

8.50 g, 25.75 mm

Edge

Fine reeded with lettering '2★★' repeated six times, alternating upright and inverted.

Apparent Grade

Extremely Fine (XF) to About Uncirculated (AU). Shows light surface contact marks but very sharp detail.

Obverse (Front)

Portrait of Prince Albert II facing right. Above him, the inscription 'MONACO'. Below, the year '2023' flanked by the mint mark and mint master mark. The outer ring features the 12 stars of the European flag.

Reverse (Back)

A map of Europe next to the numeral '2', with six vertical lines and 12 stars representing the European Union. Designed by Luc Luycx.

What Drives This Coin's Value

Mintage year (some years have much lower mintages), overall luster, and absence of bag marks. Monaco coins typically carry a premium over face value regardless of condition.

Similar Coins

Standard 2 Euro coins from other countries. It can be distinguished by the word 'MONACO' and the portrait of Albert II.

Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags

Check for distinct '2★★' edge lettering and magnetic properties (the center is slightly magnetic, the ring is not). Watch for 'fake' Monaco coins that are actually colorized base euros.

Notable Varieties & Errors

No major die varieties for 2023 are commonly recognized, though minor alignment errors exist.

Created At: 2026-06-14T21:09:40.901729