France Commemorates Notre-DameS restoration with New €2 Coin Design
France is celebrating the remarkable rebirth of Notre-dame Cathedral with a special commemorative €2 coin. This new design, featuring the cathedral’s beautifully restored facade, arrives nearly a year after the iconic landmark reopened to the public in December 2024 following a five-year restoration. The cathedral’s towers followed in September 2025, and ongoing work continues to revitalize the surrounding square and gardens with a greener landscape.
This coin isn’t just currency; it’s a tribute. As Marc Schwartz, head of La Monnaie de Paris (the french Mint), explained, it’s a way to honor the skilled artisans who dedicated themselves to bringing Notre-Dame back to life. “Like all French people, we were moved by the fire at Notre-Dame. Nearly a year after the reopening, this is a way of celebrating all the craftsmen and women who worked on the site,” he stated.
A Gradual Rollout
The coins have recently been delivered to the mint and will enter circulation progressively over the coming months. This rollout will coincide with the mint’s standard practise of withdrawing worn or damaged €2 coins from circulation.You’ll likely encounter these commemorative coins as part of your everyday transactions soon.
National Sides & Euro Coin Design
it’s critically important to remember that while all euro coins are legal tender across the Eurozone, each country has the freedom to design it’s own “national” side.
* The common side of a €2 coin displays a map of Europe and the denomination “2 euro.”
* The reverse side, however, is where each nation can express its identity.
Currently, French €2 coins feature a tree alongside the national motto: “liberté, égalité, fraternité.” Soon, you’ll also find coins showcasing the majestic front of Notre-dame, complete with its restored towers and spire.
Beyond Notre-Dame: Recent French Coin Updates
France has been actively updating its coinage in recent years. Last year, the country unveiled new designs for its 10, 20, and 50 cent coins. These coins now honor three exceptional French women:
* simone Veil: A Holocaust survivor and pioneering abortion rights activist.
* Josephine Baker: A Franco-American dancer and a courageous member of the French Resistance.
* Marie curie: A groundbreaking Franco-Polish scientist renowned for her work on radioactivity.
These changes highlight France’s commitment to recognizing influential figures in its history.It’s worth noting that the national side of euro coins can only be altered every 15 years, making these updates significant.
Euro Banknotes: A Symbol of European Unity
Unlike coins, euro banknotes don’t feature national symbols or individual people.Instead, they embody the spirit of European cooperation and openness.
* The Front: Depicts windows and doorways, representing European openness and collaboration.
* The Back: showcases bridges, symbolizing dialog between Europe and the wider world.
Each denomination features a different architectural style, spanning various periods of European history – from Classical to 19th-century iron and glass construction – without replicating existing monuments.
Plan Your Visit to Notre-Dame
Notre-Dame Cathedral is now fully accessible to visitors. Here’s what you need to know:
* general Admission: Visiting the main cathedral is free, and advance booking isn’t required. However, reserving tickets online via the official website is recommended: https://www.notredamedeparis.fr/visiter/reserver-gratuitement/
* Tower Access: Climbing the towers costs €16. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.tours-notre-dame-de-paris.fr/
This new €2 coin serves as a lasting reminder of Notre-Dame’s resilience and the dedication of those who restored it. It’s a piece of history you might soon find in your pocket, and a symbol of france’s cultural heritage.
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