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Introduction
In 2027, Germany is issuing a 2-euro commemorative coin to mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of Hans-Dietrich Genscher. This issue is part of the “Einigkeit und Recht und Freiheit” (“Unity and Justice and Freedom”) series, which is dedicated to prominent figures in German political history. It thus pays tribute to a statesman who played a major role in the country’s reunification and in the process of European integration.
Born on March 21, 1927, in Reideburg, near Halle, Hans-Dietrich Genscher had a long political career within the Free Democratic Party (FDP). He notably served as Federal Minister of the Interior from 1969 to 1974. Subsequently, he led German diplomacy from 1974 to 1992, with a brief interruption in 1982. He also held the position of Vice-Chancellor for a large part of this period.
Par ailleurs, son action diplomatique contribua au rapprochement entre l’Est et l’Ouest durant la guerre froide. En septembre 1989, il annonça notamment aux réfugiés est-allemands de Prague leur autorisation de rejoindre la République fédérale. Cet événement précéda de quelques semaines la chute du mur de Berlin. Ainsi, cette pièce célèbre une personnalité étroitement associée à l’unité allemande et à l’histoire européenne contemporaine.
Coin Description
The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Hans-Dietrich Genscher, recognizable by his signature glasses and serene expression. His face occupies a large portion of the central disc, positioned slightly toward the right. The design highlights the former minister’s facial features, hair, and glasses; furthermore, the engraved lines accentuate the details of his expression and add depth to the composition.
On the left is the inscription “HANS-DIETRICH GENSCHER” spread across two lines. Directly below appear the dates “1927–2016” marking the statesman’s years of birth and death. The year “2027” completes the design, highlighting the centenary of his birth. Together, these inscriptions make it immediately clear who is being honored and which event is being commemorated.
In the lower part of the central disc, the letter “D” denotes Germany, the issuing country. Nearby, there is also a mint mark, which varies depending on the place of production. Germany uses five such mint marks: A for Berlin, D for Munich, F for Stuttgart, G for Karlsruhe, and J for Hamburg. On the specimen shown, the letter “A” therefore indicates the Berlin mint. Furthermore, the designer’s stylized signature appears to the right of the portrait. Finally, the outer ring features the twelve stars of the European Union.
The engraver Ulrich Böhme, originally from Stuttgart, designed this depiction. His drawing favors an expressive and easily recognizable portrait. Furthermore, the absence of complex decorative elements focuses attention on Genscher’s face. This restraint reflects the significance of his diplomatic career. Consequently, the coin combines a personal tribute with a broader commemoration of German political history.
Conclusion
In summary, the 2-euro commemorative coin issued by Germany in 2027 marks the centenary of Hans-Dietrich Genscher, a major figure in European diplomacy. Through his portrait, this issue highlights, in particular, his commitment to international dialogue and German reunification.
Moreover, his career path reflects the profound political transformations that shaped Europe during the second half of the 20th century. His intervention in Prague in September 1989, in particular, remains one of the most famous episodes of his career. Furthermore, his diplomatic efforts supported the negotiations that led to the unification of Germany in 1990.
Thus, this coin serves as a tribute to one of the key figures in contemporary German history. It also underscores the importance of European cooperation, diplomatic dialogue, and national unity.
| Issuing Country: |  |
| Issue Date: | March 18, 2027 |
| Total Mintage: | 30.000.000 on 5 mints (A, D, F, G, J) |
| Mint A: | – |
| including Proof: | – |
| including BU: | – |
| including UNC: | – |
| Mint D: | – |
| including Proof: | – |
| including BU: | – |
| including UNC: | – |
| Mint F: | – |
| including Proof: | – |
| including BU: | – |
| including UNC: | – |
| Mint G: | – |
| including Proof: | – |
| including BU: | – |
| including UNC: | – |
| Mint J: | – |
| including Proof: | – |
| including BU: | – |
| including UNC: | – |
| Engraver: | Ulrich Böhme |
| Edge: |  |
| Rarity: |   |
| Official Journal: | To be defined on EUR-Lex |
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.
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