2027 – Germany – State of North Rhine-Westphalia

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Introduction

In 2027, Germany is issuing a 2-euro commemorative coin dedicated to the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. This release is part of the “Bundesländer II” (Federal States II) series, launched in 2023 to showcase Germany’s various federal states. Each year, a coin features an iconic landmark from one of these regions. For this fifth issue, Germany has chosen Aachen Cathedral—one of the country’s most prestigious historical structures.

Located near the Belgian and Dutch borders, Aachen possesses a rich political and religious history. The city held a central place in the empire of Charlemagne, who established one of his primary residences there. Around the year 800, the emperor commissioned the construction of a palatine chapel—a structure now incorporated into the cathedral. Subsequently, this building served as the site for the coronation of numerous Germanic sovereigns.

In 1978, UNESCO designated Aachen Cathedral as a World Heritage Site, making it the first German cultural monument to receive this recognition. This piece thus pays tribute to an architectural masterpiece that bears witness to Europe’s medieval history and Carolingian heritage.

Coin Description

The obverse of the coin depicts Aachen Cathedral, an iconic landmark of North Rhine-Westphalia. The design shows the structure as viewed from the Katschhof square, located in the heart of the old town. At the center, the famous Palatine Chapel appears with its distinctive dome. Additionally, an imposing bell tower rises on the right, while several historic buildings frame the composition. This perspective thus highlights the various architectural styles that make up the monument.

The left side notably features Gothic facades with their tall, slender windows. In the center, the rounded forms of the cathedral contrast with the vertical lines of the bell tower. Furthermore, the surrounding buildings complement this urban scene harmoniously. The engraver’s intent is to capture the perspective that visitors encounter from the Katschhof square. Additionally, the lines drawn in the foreground enhance the depth of the composition and guide the viewer’s gaze toward the cathedral.

In the upper part of the central disc is the inscription “NORDRHEIN-WESTFALEN”, which designates the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Just above appears the letter “D”, corresponding to the issuing country, Germany. On the right is a second letter indicating the mint. Thus, the letter “D” visible on the model presented corresponds to the Munich workshop. Other versions are marked A, F, G or J, depending on where they were manufactured. Finally, the year “2027” appears in the lower part, while the outer crown features the twelve stars of the European Union.

The German engraver Michael Otto, a native of Rodenbach, designed this architectural depiction. His work emphasizes the details of the monument and the richness of its historical setting. Furthermore, the choice of an eye-level perspective symbolically brings the viewer closer to the site. Consequently, this composition underscores the significance of Aachen Cathedral within Germany’s architectural, religious, and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

In summary, the 2-euro commemorative coin issued by Germany in 2027 celebrates the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. By featuring the Aachen Cathedral, this issue pays tribute to a major monument in European history.

Indeed, the edifice recalls the legacy of Charlemagne and the city’s political role during the Middle Ages. Furthermore, its architecture bears witness to several centuries of artistic and religious evolution. Its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site also underscores its exceptional historical value.

Thus, this fifth broadcast of the “Bundesländer II” series highlights the cultural and architectural richness of North Rhine-Westphalia. It also contributes to discovering the heritage of the different German Länder. Finally, this piece constitutes a tribute to a monument which embodies an essential part of the history of the country and of Europe.

Issuing Country:
Issue Date:	January 26, 2027
Total Mintage:	30.000.000
Mint A:	6.000.000
including Proof:	–
including BU:	–
including UNC:	–
Mint D:	6.300.000
including Proof:	–
including BU:	–
including UNC:	–
Mint F:	7.200.000
including Proof:	–
including BU:	–
including UNC:	–
Mint G:	4.200.000
including Proof:	–
including BU:	–
including UNC:	–
Mint J:	6.300.000
including Proof:	–
including BU:	–
including UNC:	–
Engraver:	Michael Otto
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.