{"id":25547,"date":"2026-10-23T12:27:40","date_gmt":"2026-10-23T10:27:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.2euros.org\/?p=25547"},"modified":"2026-10-24T07:10:25","modified_gmt":"2026-10-24T05:10:25","slug":"2026-belgium-200th-anniversary-of-the-royal-observatory-of-belgium-and-50th-anniversary-of-the-national-geographic-institute","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.2euros.org\/en\/2-euro-commemorative-belgium\/2026-belgium-200th-anniversary-of-the-royal-observatory-of-belgium-and-50th-anniversary-of-the-national-geographic-institute\/","title":{"rendered":"2026 – Belgium – 200th anniversary of the Royal Observatory of Belgium and 50th anniversary of the National Geographic Institute"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Introduction<\/h2>\n\n

In 2026, Belgium is issuing a 2-euro commemorative coin to mark the 200th anniversary of the Royal Observatory of Belgium and the 50th anniversary of the National Geographic Institute. This issue pays tribute to two scientific institutions that contribute to our understanding of Belgian territory and the universe. <\/p>\n\n

Founded in 1826 during the reign of William I, the Royal Observatory of Belgium<\/strong> carries out activities across several scientific fields. Its areas of study include astronomy, solar physics, seismology, and timekeeping. Over the decades, its research has contributed to major advances in our understanding of the Earth and space. <\/p>\n\n

For its part, the National Geographic Institute (IGN)<\/strong> took on its current institutional form in 1976. Heir to a long cartographic tradition, it is primarily responsible for the production and dissemination of precise geographic data. Furthermore, its work facilitates land-use planning, infrastructure management, and numerous public-sector missions. <\/p>\n\n

Ainsi, cette pi\u00e8ce comm\u00e9morative souligne le r\u00f4le compl\u00e9mentaire de ces deux organismes. Elle c\u00e9l\u00e8bre \u00e9galement leur contribution au progr\u00e8s scientifique et leur engagement dans la transmission des connaissances aux g\u00e9n\u00e9rations futures. <\/p>\n\n

Coin Description<\/h2>\n\n

The obverse of the coin features a symbolic composition that combines geography and astronomy<\/strong>. In the center, a child stands on a map representing Belgian territory. With an arm raised, the child points toward the starry sky, evoking the exploration of the universe. Additionally, a series of curved lines forms a structure reminiscent of a celestial globe. Several stars and constellations complete this scientific depiction. <\/p>\n\n

The map located in the lower section directly symbolizes the activities of the National Geographic Institute<\/strong>, an organization that plays an essential role in the mapping and study of Belgian territory. Conversely, the stars, celestial paths, and the child\u2019s gesture evoke the missions of the Royal Observatory of Belgium<\/strong>. In this way, the design harmoniously brings together two distinct yet closely complementary scientific disciplines. <\/p>\n\n

Around the edge of the central disc are the inscriptions “ROYAL OBSERVATORY OF BELGIUM<\/strong>” and “NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC INSTITUTE<\/strong>” These labels, written in English, identify the two institutions being honored. Additionally, the right-hand side features the inscription “BE 2026<\/strong>” combining the issuing country code with the year of issue. Nearby, the mint marks also appear: an Erlenmeyer flask accompanied by a star, and the rod of Mercury. Finally, the outer ring displays the twelve stars of the European Union<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

The drawing, created by Iris Bruijns, favors a symbolic and accessible approach. The child represents new generations, while their gaze, directed toward the sky, conveys scientific curiosity. Furthermore, the celestial structure highlights the connections between astronomical observation and geographical representation. Consequently, this composition illustrates the shared commitment of both institutions to advancing knowledge and encouraging future discoveries. <\/p>\n\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n

In summary, the 2-euro commemorative coin issued by Belgium in 2026 celebrates two major anniversaries in its scientific heritage. It pays tribute to the bicentennial of the Royal Observatory of Belgium and the fiftieth anniversary of the National Geographic Institute. <\/p>\n\n

Through the depiction of a child observing the sky from a map of Belgium, this program symbolically links astronomy and geography. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of scientific research in understanding our planet and its environment. It also underscores the role of new generations in the pursuit of further discoveries. <\/p>\n\n

Thus, this piece serves as a tribute to two centuries of scientific observation and fifty years of geographical expertise<\/strong>. It also highlights Belgium\u2019s commitment to research, innovation, and the dissemination of knowledge. <\/p>\n\n

Issuing Country:<\/strong><\/td>\"Belgium\"<\/td><\/tr>
Issue Date:<\/strong><\/td>September 25, 2026<\/td><\/tr>
Total Mintage:<\/strong><\/td>132.500<\/td><\/tr>
including Proof:<\/td> 7.500<\/td><\/tr>
including BU:<\/td> 125.000<\/td><\/tr>
including UNC:<\/td> 0<\/td><\/tr>
Engraver:<\/strong><\/td>Iris Bruijns<\/td><\/tr>
Edge:<\/strong><\/td>\"\"<\/td><\/tr>
Rarity:<\/strong><\/td><\/td><\/tr>
Official Journal:<\/strong><\/td>To be defined<\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n

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<\/a>. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Introduction In 2026, Belgium is issuing a 2-euro commemorative coin to mark the 200th anniversary of the Royal Observatory of Belgium and the 50th anniversary of the National Geographic Institute. This issue pays tribute to […]<\/a><\/p>\n

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