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2 Euro Commemorative Coin of the Hellenic Republic, issued in 2004. This is the first 2 Euro commemorative coin issued in the history of the Eurozone. Dedicated to the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. Mintage of 35 million. Bimetallic (outer ring - cupro-nickel, inner part - nickel brass/nickel/nickel brass), diameter 25.75 mm, weight 8.5 g. Minted at the Hellenic Mint in Chalandri.
Obverse
The center of the coin depicts an ancient statue of Discobolus in the process of throwing a discus. This is one of the most famous works of ancient Greek sculpture, created by Myron around 460-450 BC. The base of the statue partially covers the outer ring of the coin. On the left is the logo of the Olympic Games "ATHENS 2004" with five Olympic rings. On the right is the denomination "2" and the word "ΕΥΡΩ" (euro in Greek), one under the other. The year is divided into two parts by a star below: "20*04". At the top left, above the athlete's head, is the mint mark. On the outer ring are the 12 stars of the European Union.
Reverse
The reverse is the common side of the first type 2 euro coins, designed by Luc Luix. On the left is a large denomination "2" and the inscription "EURO", on the right is a map of the European Union with the borders of the member states as of 1999. On the back of the map are six vertical lines with stars at the ends. On the outer ring are the 12 stars of the EU. Finely grooved band with inscription.
Historical context
The XXVIII Summer Olympic Games (Athens 2004) were held in Athens from 13 to 29 August 2004 under the slogan "Welcome Home" - the return of the Olympics to their homeland 108 years after the first modern Games in 1896. The Games were attended by 10,625 athletes from 201 countries, competing in 301 disciplines in 28 sports. The opening ceremony was held at the newly built Olympic Stadium in Athens. For the first time since 1996, all NOC countries participated in the Games. The USA, China and Russia led the final medal standings, with Greece finishing 15th. IOC President Jacques Rogge called the Games "unforgettable, perfect." Myron's "Discoball" is one of the most famous works of ancient sculpture, known from Roman marble copies; the original bronze statue is lost.