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Introduction
In 2026, Luxembourg is issuing a 2-euro commemorative coin to mark the 40th anniversary of the awarding of the International Charlemagne Prize to the people of Luxembourg. This distinction honors individuals and institutions that contribute to European unification. In this way, this numismatic issue pays tribute to the Grand Duchy’s historic commitment to peace, solidarity, and cooperation among nations.
On May 8, 1986, the German city of Aachen took the exceptional step of awarding this prize to the entire Luxembourgish people. Grand Duke Jean accepted the award on behalf of his fellow citizens during an official ceremony. The jury’s intention was to recognize Luxembourg’s consistent contribution to the process of European integration.
Since the beginning of European integration, the Grand Duchy has played an important role in bringing states closer together. It hosts several European institutions and has actively participated in the major milestones of this cooperation. Furthermore, prominent Luxembourgers—such as Robert Schuman and Joseph Bech—contributed to the initial community-building initiatives.
Consequently, this piece celebrates a historic recognition granted to an entire population, whose European commitment far exceeds the size of its territory.
Coin Description
The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Grand Duke Guillaume, the new sovereign of Luxembourg as of October 3, 2025. His effigy occupies the central part of the disc and is shown in profile, facing left. The design highlights, in particular, his facial features, his hair, and the collar of his attire. Furthermore, the intricate engraving adds a sense of relief to this official depiction.
In the upper section appears the inscription “GROUSSHERZOG GUILLAUME VU LËTZEBUERG” which means “Grand Duke Guillaume of Luxembourg” in Luxembourgish. This text follows the curve of the central disc in a harmonious way. To the right, the year “2026” is also displayed, arranged vertically. Together, these inscriptions allow for the immediate identification of the sovereign and the year of the commemoration.
In the lower section, two significant dates commemorate the events being celebrated. On the left, “11.11.1981” marks the birth of Grand Duke Guillaume, accompanied by a small star. On the right, “3.10.2025” signifies his accession to the throne; this date is preceded by a stylized crown, a symbol of the sovereign office. Additionally, subtle mint marks appear below the portrait. Finally, the outer ring features the twelve stars of the European Union.
The artist Sandra Deiana designed this depiction by focusing on a realistic portrait and a balanced composition. The absence of complex decorative elements directs attention toward the sovereign’s face, while the circular arrangement of the inscriptions underscores the official nature of the issue. In this way, the coin combines a personal tribute to Grand Duke Guillaume with a celebration of the continuity of the Luxembourgish dynasty.
Conclusion
In summary, the 2-euro commemorative coin issued by Luxembourg in 2026 celebrates the accession to the throne and the 45th birthday of Grand Duke Guillaume. It notably marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the Luxembourgish monarchy.
Through the portrait of the sovereign, this issue commemorates the dynastic transition of October 3, 2025. Furthermore, the two dates inscribed on the coin highlight major events in his life. The choice of a sober and solemn composition also reinforces the institutional dimension of this commemoration.
Thus, this coin serves as a tribute to the new head of state of Luxembourg and to the continuity of the constitutional monarchy. Furthermore, it reflects the Grand Duchy’s commitment to its traditions and its numismatic heritage. Finally, this issue commemorates a historic change of reign for Luxembourg.
| Issuing Country: |  |
| Issue Date: | July 14, 2026 |
| Total Mintage: | 131.000 |
| including Proof: | 1.000 |
| including BU: | 10.000 |
| including UNC: | 120.000 |
| Engraver: | Sandra Deiana |
| Edge: |  |
| Rarity: |   |
| Official Journal: | To be defined on EUR-Lex |
Would you like to know the technical specifications of this coin? Do not hesitate to consult the page dedicated to the characteristics of a 2 euro coin.
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