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The 2 euro coin was minted by France in 2011 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Fête de la Musique — the “Festival of Music,” which is celebrated annually on June 21 (the summer solstice) and has become a true cultural phenomenon in France and around the world.
Obverse
The French obverse features an image of Marianne, the inscription “RF” and the mark of the Paris Mint. The year of minting is 2011.
Reverse
The reverse depicts stylized musical notes and a silhouette of a musician — symbols of street music and open music. The inscriptions “FÊTE DE LA MUSIQUE,” “30 ANS,” and “2011” mark the anniversary. On the outer ring are the 12 stars of the EU.
Historical context
The Fête de la Musique was founded in 1982 at the initiative of the French Ministry of Culture and journalist Jacques Lang. On June 21, musicians of all genres play for free in the streets, squares and venues. The festival has spread to over 120 countries and hundreds of cities around the world, becoming one of the most popular cultural events on the planet.