A new commemorative 2-euro coin intended for circulation has been issued by Greece. 2,5 millions of coins.

The subject of commemoration is the 2,500th anniversary of the Battle of Marathon that took place in 490 BC during the first Persian invasion of Greece. The inner part of the coin shows a synthesis of a shield and a runner/warrior symbolising the battle for freedom and the noble ideals derived from the battle of Marathon. The bird on the shield symbolises the birth of western civilization at his present form. The coin’s outer ring depicts the 12 stars of the European flag.

Once a year, each country in the euro area may issue a €2 commemorative coin. These coins have the same features and properties and the same common side as normal €2 coins. What makes them different is their commemorative design on the national side. Only the €2 denomination can be used for commemorative coins. They are legal tender throughout the euro area. That means they can be used – and must be accepted – just like any other euro coin.

Most of these coins commemorate the anniversaries of historical events or draw attention to current events of historic importance. The very first €2 commemorative coin was issued in 2004 by Greece to commemorate the Olympic Games in Athens. During 2010 eleven countries have issued commemorative coins. We refer to Spain, Luxembourg, Slovenia, Germany, France, Italy, Portugal, Belgium, Greece , San Marino and the Vatican.