2029 – Europe – 25th anniversary of the enlargement of the European Union

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Introduction

The €2 commemorative coin issued by the European Union in 2029 celebrates the 25th anniversary of the historic 2004 enlargement. This landmark event saw the integration of ten new Member States, mainly from Central and Eastern Europe. As such, this joint issue pays tribute to a decisive moment in European integration. It also illustrates the collective desire of member states to emphasize the values of unity, solidarity, and cooperation. Indeed, this joint issue by several eurozone countries strengthens the shared European identity. The central theme of this coin is therefore the 2004 enlargement, which transformed the Union geopolitically. Finally, the year 2029 marks the 25th anniversary of this integration, giving it a strong commemorative significance.

Coin description

The obverse of the coin features a symbolic composition, both stylized and rich in meaning. At its center, a stylized map of Europe stretches from the West to the far reaches of the East. It thus includes the countries that joined the Union in 2004. Furthermore, this map is partially surrounded by twenty-five five-pointed stars, representing the then-member states. These stars form a harmonious arc illustrating unity in diversity.

In addition, several lines radiate outward from the center of the map. They evoke the dynamics of integration and collective momentum. The inscription “EU 2004–2029” appears on the left edge of the coin. It indicates the key dates of the enlargement and the anniversary being celebrated. In addition, the motto “United in diversity” is inscribed in English in the original form, “United in diversity,” in capital letters. This motto perfectly reflects the European project as reaffirmed in 2004.

Finally, the year “2029” is engraved at the bottom of the card, accompanied by the symbol of the issuing currency, depending on the country concerned. For example, the initials “BE” for Belgium, or “DE” for Germany. However, despite these national variations, the main motif remains the same. This reinforces the symbolic significance of a common message conveyed by all participating countries.

Conclusion

In summary, the 2029 €2 commemorative coin pays profound tribute to the historic enlargement of the European Union in 2004. Through its harmonious design, it expresses the founding ideals of the Union: solidarity, peace, and diversity. Consequently, it recalls the importance of this enlargement for the stability and unity of the continent. Moreover, by uniting old and new members around a single image, it embodies the contemporary European spirit. This type of joint issue underlines the collective attachment to the major milestones in the Community’s history.

More information to be published in the Official Journal.

Do you want to know the technical specifications of this coin? Feel free to visit the page dedicated to the specifications of a 2-euro coin.