European Union Euro Coinage 2002 to Date

Lëtzebuerg is Luxembourg, Laura, a member of the European Union. Euros are the currency of the European Union, and collecting euro coinage is great fun.

From Wikipedia: There are eight euro coin denominations, ranging from one cent to two euros. They have a common reverse, portraying a map of Europe, but each country in the eurozone has its own design on the obverse, which means that each coin has a variety of different designs in circulation at once. Three European microstates which use the euro as their currency also have the right to mint coins with their own designs on the obverse side. The coins, and various commemorative coins, are minted at numerous national mints across the European Union to strict national quotas. Obverse designs are chosen nationally, while the reverse and the currency as a whole is managed by the European Central Bank (ECB).

If you are looking for coin collecting adventure, and you enjoy the beauty, variety, and affordability of modern coins, euro collecting is for you!

As with all modern coinage, there are so many varieties that our CoinQuest forum is incapable of comprehensive coverage. In the old days, a single coin design would be used for decades. Now, with modern minting technology, new coin designs appear in months, not decades. A good coin catalog is absolutely essential for modern coin collecting. A favorite for euro coinage is Standard Catalog of World Coins 2001 to Date

Here are some general rules and observations:

1. Circulated euro coins, from one cent to 2 euros, are worth face value and can be purchased for small amounts over face value, the additional charge covers handling by the coin dealer. To convert euro value to any other currency, use xe.com. Right now one euro is equivalent to $1.35 US dollars. Check it often, as it changes every day. Assembling a complete set of all circulating euros, from all dates, all countries, and all denominations is a formidable collecting challenge but very affordable. It is a great place to start your coin collecting hobby.

2. Uncirculated euro coins, from one cent to 2 euros, are coins that have been rescued from circulation before entering it. These are especially beautiful and usually carry a premium of a few US dollars over face value. Check eBay and similar sites and you will find oodles of nice coins at very nice prices.

3. Proof euro coins, from one cent to 2 euros, are coins that have been made especially for collectors. They have special surface finishes and can look very, very beautiful. Proofs usually sell for a few tens of dollars over face.

4. Commemorative euro coins have denominations larger than 2 euros. These come in all sorts of amazing patterns and compositions, including gold, silver, and exotic metals. They can sell for tens to hundreds of US dollars.
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