Italy 2 Euro (Dante Alighieri)
Country of Origin: Italy (Italian Republic)
Year of Issue: 2002
Denomination: 2 Euro
Composition: Bimetallic: Nickel-brass clad nickel center, Copper-nickel ring
Brief Description
A bimetallic 2 Euro coin featuring the portrait of writer Dante Alighieri on the obverse.
Historical Significance
Issued as part of the initial wave of Euro currency, replaceing the Lira. The design honors Dante Alighieri, the 'Father of the Italian Language', based on a Raphael portrait.
Estimated Value
$2 - $4 in circulated condition; $5 - $10 in uncirculated condition.
Care Instructions
Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid cleaning or polishing as it removes the original surface; handle by the edges to prevent skin oil damage.
Mint Mark
R (Rome Mint)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; approximately 463 million minted in 2002.
Weight & Diameter
8.5g / 25.75mm
Edge
Finely reeded with lettering: '2' followed by a star, repeated 6 times alternately upright and inverted.
Apparent Grade
Very Fine / Extremely Fine (Circulated)
Obverse (Front)
A portrait of Dante Alighieri by Raphael (from the Parnassus in the Vatican); monogram 'RI' for Repubblica Italiana and the date 2002. Surrounded by 12 stars.
Reverse (Back)
Standard Euro common side showing a map of Europe next to the denomination '2 EURO'.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Most 2002 Italian 2 Euro coins are worth face value unless in exceptionally perfect uncirculated condition. Circulated coins are generally worth exactly 2 Euros.
Similar Coins
Other national 2 Euro coins (e.g., German eagle, French tree). Dante's profile is unique to the Italian 2 Euro.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for magnetic properties (the center is slightly magnetic). Ensure the bimetallic joint is tight and the edge lettering is crisp.
Notable Varieties & Errors
None common for this date; look for major striking errors like off-center strikes or 'wrong planchet' errors which are rare and valuable.
Created At: 2026-06-13T00:24:48.998435