Greece 2 Euro (Europa and the Bull)
Country of Origin: Greece (Hellenic Republic)
Year of Issue: 2003
Denomination: 2 Euro
Composition: Bimetallic: Nickel-brass clad nickel center in a Copper-nickel ring
Brief Description
A bimetallic silver-colored outer ring and gold-colored center featuring a scene from Greek mythology.
Historical Significance
This is a standard circulation 2 Euro coin from Greece. It depicts the scene of the kidnapping of Europa by Zeus in the form of a bull, a foundational myth of the European continent. Despite internet rumors, the 'S' mark found on some 2002 versions stands for 'Suomi' (Finland), where some early Greek euros were minted; the 2003 version was minted in Athens.
Estimated Value
$2.15 - $3.50 circulated; $5.00 - $10.00 in Uncirculated/Mint State.
Care Instructions
Handle by the edges only. Do not clean or polish the coin as it can damage the surface and reduce collector value. Store in a PVC-free coin holder or album.
Mint Mark
Anthemion (flower) - Athens Mint
Mintage & Rarity
Common. Approximately 464,422 were minted for 2003 (specifically for sets), making it more scarce than the 2002 version but still widely available to collectors.
Weight & Diameter
8.50g, 25.75mm
Edge
Fine reeded with lettering: 'ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΗΜΟΚΡΑΤΙΑ *' (Hellenic Republic)
Apparent Grade
Extremely Fine (XF) / About Uncirculated (AU). Shows very light circulation wear but retains high detail and some original luster.
Obverse (Front)
A scene from a mosaic in Sparta (3rd century AD), depicting Europa being abducted by Zeus in the shape of a bull. Text reads 'ΕΥΡΩΠΗ' (Europa) and '2 ΕΥΡΩ'.
Reverse (Back)
A map of the European Union (pre-expansion) next to the face value, with 12 stars representing Europe. Designed by Luc Luycx.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition/Grade is the primary factor. Circulated coins are generally worth face value. The 2003 issue is slightly more sought after than 2002 because it was not released for general mass circulation in the same volume.
Similar Coins
Other 2 Euro coins from different EU nations; specifically, the 2002 Greece 2 Euro which looks identical but may contain an 'S' in one of the stars.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for magnetic properties (the center is slightly magnetic). Verify the edge lettering quality. Be wary of sellers claiming the 'S' mark or standard 2002/2003 dates are 'rare errors' worth thousands—this is a common scam.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Standard version; no major recognized errors for this specific year.
Created At: 2026-04-23T11:08:18.042664