2004 Italy 2 Euro World Food Programme Commemorative
Country of Origin: Italy (Italian Republic)
Year of Issue: 2004
Denomination: 2 Euro
Composition: Bimetallic: Nickel-brass clad Nickel center in Copper-nickel ring
Brief Description
A bimetallic silver-colored outer ring and gold-colored center commemorative 2 Euro coin honoring the 5th anniversary of the World Food Programme.
Historical Significance
This was the first commemorative 2 Euro coin ever issued by Italy. It celebrates the 5th decade (5th anniversary of the 1963 start of operations) of the UN World Food Programme, which is headquartered in Rome.
Estimated Value
$2.50-$4.50 circulated; $15-$30 in high-grade Mint State (UNC)
Care Instructions
Avoid cleaning or polishing, as this removes original surface luster and lowers value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent oxidation and environmental damage.
Mint Mark
R (Rome Mint, Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato)
Mintage & Rarity
16,000,000; relatively common but sought after as the first of its kind.
Weight & Diameter
8.50g / 25.75mm
Edge
Fine reeded with lettered inscription: 2 ★ repeated six times, alternately upright and inverted.
Apparent Grade
Extremely Fine / About Uncirculated. The coin shows minor surface marks and toning, but high detail remains in the corn and globe design.
Obverse (Front)
Features a globe tilted to the right with 'WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME' inscribed inside. Emerging from behind the globe are kernels of corn, rice, and wheat. Designed by Uliana Pernazza (UP initials).
Reverse (Back)
Standard common map of Europe used between 1999-2006, symbolizing the European Union, with the denomination '2 EURO' on the right.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition is the primary factor. Because millions were released into circulation, only flawlessly preserved specimens carry a significant premium.
Similar Coins
Other 2 Euro commemoratives. It can be distinguished by the specific globe and grain imagery and the English text 'WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME'.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for magnetic properties (the center is weakly magnetic, the ring is non-magnetic). Ensure the edge lettering is crisp and the bimetallic seam is tight.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major die varieties or errors are widely recognized for this specific issue, though minor strike doubling can occur.
Created At: 2026-06-15T17:39:56.310462