2 Euros Crete

2013 year


Bimetallic: nickel brass clad nickel centre in copper-nickel ring	8.5 g	25.75 mm

Description

Issuer	Greece
Period	Third Hellenic Republic (1974-date)
Type	Circulating commemorative coin
Year	2013
Value	2 Euros 2 EUR = USD 2.20
Currency	Euro (2002-date)
Composition	Bimetallic: nickel brass clad nickel centre in copper-nickel ring
Weight	8.5 g
Diameter	25.75 mm
Thickness	2.2 mm
Shape	Round
Technique	Milled
Orientation	Medal alignment ↑↑
Updated	2024-10-05

References

Numista	N#49944
Rarity index	8%

Reverse

A map, next to the face value, shows the European continent without borders.

Script: Latin

Lettering: 2 EURO LL

Engraver: Luc Luycx

Edge

Reeded with inscription

Script: Greek

Lettering: ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΗΜΟΚΡΑΤΙΑ

Translation: HELLENIC REPUBLIC

Comment

The history and fate of the ‘Great Island’ of Crete were always inextricably connected with those of mainland
Greece. Strategically situated between Europe, Asia and Africa, Crete fell to a series of conquerors, from the
Romans and the Saracens to the Venetians and the Ottomans. Union with the modern Greek state was hard
won by the Cretans after several violent uprisings, including the Cretan Revolt of 1866 marked by the selfsacrifice of hundreds of besieged at the Arkadi Monastery. After the revolt of 1897-98, the island was
declared an autonomous ‘Cretan State’, with Prince George of Greece appointed its High Commissioner. Crete was formally integrated into Greece under the Treaty of London in 1913, after the Balkan Wars of 1912-13.
The coin was issued in bankrolls, in Proof quality along with the proof year set and in BU quality on a coincard blister.

Interesting fact

The coin's design, created by artist Georgios Stamatopoulos, features a stunning representation of the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos, located on the island of Crete. The palace is depicted in a vibrant red color, set against a shimmering background of waves. The design is meant to evoke the rich cultural heritage and history of Crete, which has been a crossroads of civilizations for thousands of years.