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Commemorative coins usually pay tribute to historical figures, iconic buildings, or major national milestones. That's why it's so striking that Italy has chosen to place a fictional character at the center of a 2-euro coin .
This is not an indirect reference or an abstract allegory: it is Pinocchio, instantly recognizable. This decision makes the 2026 Italian issue a unique piece within the euro landscape and confirms the extent to which the character created by Carlo Collodi has transcended his literary origins.
Since the late 19th century, The Adventures of Pinocchio has accompanied generations of readers, conveying values such as honesty, responsibility, and learning from mistakes. Its appearance on a coin today reflects its status as a cultural icon of universal reach.
A narrative scene condensed into a coin
The chosen design is not limited to representing the character: it tells a story.
Pinocchio appears dancing, full of vitality and carefree spirit. Beside him, his shadow watches in astonishment the Talking Cricket, perched on the tip of his nose, which grows as a consequence of a lie. In a single glance, the coin encapsulates some of the most recognizable elements of Collodi's tale.
This narrative richness makes the piece more than just a commemorative tribute: it is literature turned into metal, understandable and suggestive even for those who have never read the original work.
Description of the coin dedicated to Carlo Collodi and Pinocchio
Obverse:
In the center, Pinocchio, the hero of Carlo Collodi's masterpiece, The Adventures of Pinocchio: The Story of a Little Rascal , is depicted dancing. In the field, to the right, Pinocchio's shadow is shown staring in astonishment at the Talking Cricket perched on the tip of his long nose, which is growing longer after he has told one of his lies.
At the top is the name "Carlo Collodi," along with the dates "1826" and "2026." To the left is the letter "R," identifying the Rome Mint.
To the right is the monogram "RI," the acronym for the Italian Republic. At the bottom is the word "Pinocchio," as it appears on the coin, and at the bottom right is the monogram "MB," the author's signature. The twelve stars of the European Union are arranged around the outer edge.
Carlo Collodi and the birth of a literary myth
Carlo Collodi was born in Florence in 1826 and developed an intense career as a journalist and writer in 19th-century Italy. Committed to the ideals of the Risorgimento, he reflected in his writings on education, morality, and the society of his time.
Although Pinocchio began almost as a side project, the character ended up becoming his most enduring legacy. The 2026 coin not only commemorates the author on the bicentenary of his birth, but also underscores the enduring relevance and symbolic power of his creation.
Saint Francis of Assisi: eight centuries of a universal voice
The second Italian commemorative coin of 2026 is set in a very different, but equally profound, register. Saint Francis of Assisi died in 1226 and, eight centuries later, remains one of the most influential spiritual figures in European history.
His message of voluntary poverty, fraternity, and respect for nature has made him a figure who transcends religion. In a world marked by the climate crisis and social conflicts, his thinking remains surprisingly relevant.
Medieval art and spirituality on a euro coin
The design of the coin dedicated to Saint Francis is inspired by a 14th-century fresco by Simone Martini, housed in the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi. In this way, the coin directly connects contemporary numismatics with great medieval Italian art.
Description of the Saint Francis of Assisi coin
Obverse:
In the center, an image of Saint Francis of Assisi inspired by a 14th-century fresco by Simone Martini, located in the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi.
Around it is the inscription "San Francesco d'Assisi 1226-2026".
To the right, at the bottom, appears the monogram "RI", the acronym for the Italian Republic. To the left, the letter "R", identifying the Rome Mint, and below it the signature "AV." The twelve stars of the European Union are arranged around the outer edge.
An Italian broadcast that is already generating interest
While the issuance dates and mintage volumes are still unknown, Italy's commemorative coins for 2026 are already generating excitement for several reasons: the presence of Pinocchio as the protagonist of a legal tender coin, high-quality narrative and artistic designs, and the choice of two universal figures that represent imagination and spirituality.
In 2026, these coins will not only circulate throughout Europe: they will carry with them stories, symbols and centuries of Italian culture.
Commemorative 2 euro coins 2026
Commemorative 2 euro coins from Italy
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