A €2 coin minted in Monaco in 2018 for François Joseph Bosio's 250th anniversary now fetches up to €1,000. Only 16,000 pieces were produced, making it a sought-after collector's item.
A €2 coin issued by Monaco in 2018 has become one of the most valuable modern euro coins on the collectors’ market, with prices reaching as high as €1,000. The coin, produced in a limited run of just 16,000 pieces, was created to mark the 250th anniversary of the birth of renowned French sculptor François Joseph Bosio. Its rarity and commemorative design have turned it into a highly sought-after item among numismatists across Europe.
Unlike standard euro coins, this Monaco edition was never intended for general circulation. Each piece was sold exclusively in a numbered presentation case, with an initial retail price of €120. The coin features a special proof finish, combining a mirror-like background with a matte white relief, further distinguishing it from regular €2 coins. Despite its face value, the coin’s market price has soared over the years, reflecting both its scarcity and the strong demand from collectors.
The national side of the coin displays a portrait of François Joseph Bosio alongside his sculpture 'La Ninfa Salmacis', with the inscription 'MONACO' above. The lower part of the design includes Bosio’s name, his birth year (1768), and the year of minting (2018). The reverse side remains identical to all standard €2 coins in the eurozone, featuring the common European map motif. The coin itself is bimetallic, with a nickel core and a total weight of 8.5 grams.
While the original sale price was already well above its nominal value, the coin’s current market value has increased dramatically. Online auction sites and specialist numismatic shops now list the coin for up to €1,000, though some sales have been recorded in the €600–€750 range. The combination of a low mintage, exclusive distribution, and a unique design has made this coin one of the most desirable modern issues for collectors.
Monaco regularly issues limited-edition euro coins, but the 2018 Bosio anniversary piece stands out for its exceptionally low production run and the prestige associated with the artist it commemorates. François Joseph Bosio was a prominent sculptor whose works are displayed in major European museums. In the world of euro coin collecting, Monaco’s commemorative issues are among the most valuable, often surpassing similar releases from other countries. For collectors, such coins represent both a piece of European cultural history and a significant investment opportunity.
