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A 2 euro commemorative coin of the Hellenic Republic, issued in 2011 in a circulation of 1,000,000 copies. Dedicated to the Special Olympics in Athens 2011. Bimetallic, diameter 25.75 mm, weight 8.5 g. Minted at the Hellenic Mint in Chalandri.
Obverse
In the center of the coin is an olive branch - a symbol of the achievements of athletes and peaceful victories according to ancient Greek tradition (the winners of the Olympics were crowned with an olive wreath from Olympia). In the center of the composition is a stylized spiral, symbolizing strength, energy and movement. Around the image, in a circle, are the inscriptions in Greek: "XIII SPECIAL OLYMPICS W.S.G. ATHENS 2011” (XIII Special Olympics World Summer Games) and “ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΗΜΟΚΡΑΤΙΑ”. Mintmark – Greek palmette. On the outer ring – 12 EU stars.
Reverse
The reverse is the common side of the 2 euro coins of the second type, designed by Luc Luix. It depicts a map of Europe as a single continent without internal borders. On the left – a large denomination “2” and the inscription “EURO”, on the right – a map. On the outer ring – 12 EU stars. Edge – with fine ribbing and inscription.
Historical context
The Special Olympics is an international sports movement founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver in 1968 in the USA. It provides adults and children with intellectual disabilities with the opportunity to play sports and participate in competitions. The XIII World Summer Special Olympics Games were held in Athens from 25 June to 4 July 2011 - the first time in Greece and symbolically in the home country of the Olympics. The Games were attended by about 7,500 athletes from 185 countries, 2,500 coaches, 3,000 officials, and over 25,000 volunteers. Athletes competed in 22 disciplines. The opening ceremony was held at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. The Special Olympics in Athens became one of the largest in the history of the movement and attracted wide attention to the inclusion of people with disabilities in sports.