2026 – Portugal – 70th anniversary of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation

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Introduction

In 2026, Portugal will issue a €2 commemorative coin to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, one of the country’s most prestigious cultural institutions. Founded in Lisbon in 1956, the foundation works in the fields of art, science, charity, and education. It perpetuates the wishes of its founder, the Armenian-British philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian, who wanted to dedicate his fortune to the service of humanity. The coin thus pays tribute to an institution essential to Portugal’s cultural and intellectual influence.

Coin Description

The obverse of the coin depicts a scene inspired by an ancient relief housed in the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum in Lisbon. It shows a charioteer driving a quadriga at full gallop. This representation, both classical and dynamic, symbolizes the drive, mastery, and power of cultural action. The choice of this motif underscores the foundation’s commitment to uniting tradition and modernity in a movement open to the future.

Around the central scene is the inscription “FUNDAÇÃO CALOUSTE GULBENKIAN,” followed by the words “ARTE • BENEFICÊNCIA • CIÊNCIA • EDUCAÇÃO.” These terms, inscribed in Portuguese, represent the foundation’s four main areas of activity. In the center, between the horses and the driver, are the dates “1956–2026,” indicating the institution’s 70 years of existence. Below, the name of the issuing country, “PORTUGAL,” is found, accompanied by the national coat of arms. The names “PEDRO CARVALHO” and “CASA DA MOEDA,” the engraver and mint respectively, are visible on either side of the base of the design. Finally, the outer border features the twelve stars of the European Union, symbolizing Portugal’s membership in the Eurozone.

The artwork’s style combines delicate lines with expressiveness. The horses, rendered with elegance and vigor, seem to leap from the frame, reinforcing the sense of movement. The charioteer, focused and energetic, embodies the enlightened direction the foundation strives to maintain in its missions. The whole evokes continuity, mastery, and a commitment to serving society.

Conclusion

In summary, the 2-euro coin issued by Portugal in 2026 celebrates the 70th anniversary of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. It highlights an institution whose cultural, scientific, and humanitarian impact extends far beyond the country’s borders. Therefore, this issue celebrates a lasting philanthropic legacy and a commitment to progress. Furthermore, the depiction of the quadriga symbolically represents the energy and steadfastness of this work. In addition, the chosen inscriptions and visual elements accurately reflect the foundation’s core missions. Ultimately, this commemorative coin becomes a powerful tribute to a century of cultural ambition and enlightened generosity.

Issuing Country:
Issue Date:	2026
Total Mintage:	515.000
including Proof:	7.500
including BU:	7.500
including UNC:	500.000
Engraver:	João Duarte
Edge:
Rarity:
Official Journal:	To be defined
My Collection:	[cbxwpbookmarkbtn]

Do you want to know the technical specifications of this coin? Then, feel free to consult the page dedicated to the characteristics of a 2-euro coin.