2019-02-01 Fri

Italian Mint is going to release a commemorative 2 euros coin in proof and uncirculated versions to mark the 500th Death Anniversary of legendary artist, Leonardo da Vinci. It would be the first coin to be released by the Mint in its 2019 Numismatic Collection that’s dedicated to important personalities from history. All the coins from this collection would be showcased at the annual World Money Fair which is organised in Berlin. The Italian Mint has already received several awards for their quality products at the event in the past.

Artist and engraver Maria Angela Cassol created the reverse design. 5,000 pieces each in both versions will be struck at the Mint of Rome. The obverse side depicts a recreation of Leonardo’s famous oil painting called Dama con l'ermellino (Lady with an Ermine). The original painting has been showcased at Czartoryski Museum in Krakow, Poland. It is supposedly one of the greatest examples of Renaissance art.

Other inscriptions include the texts “Leonardo”, designer’s initials “MAC”, the monogram of the Italian Republic “RI”, “R” mint mark for the Mint of Rome and the dates “1519-2019” marking Leonardo’s 500th death anniversary. 12 stars of the European Union are depicted on the outer ring.

Image Courtesy: The Italian Mint