On 28th May, France released a circulating commemorative €2 coin to celebrate the 60th anniversary of one of the most popular cartoon characters and French cultural icon, Asterix. The obverse side depicts Asterix wearing a winged helmet within decorative laurels. A Roman inscription marks the 60th anniversary. Other inscriptions include ASTERIX and RF for Republique Francaise. 3,10,000 coins will be issued in total apart from collectible versions in special finishes and packaging.

Rene Goscinny and cartoonist Albert Uderzo gave life to Asterix in 1959. The adorable cartoon character is known for his sharpness and smartness, characteristics which are commonly associated with men from France. His humorous takes on societal issues and artistic ways have earned him a lot of fan-following. Asterix cartoons have been translated to several other European languages which have also been a great hit. Not only in France, but Asterix has also been very popular even in countries like Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Scandinavia to become an icon of European art.

Image Courtesy: The Monnaie de Paris