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2 euro commemorative coin of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, issued in 2023 in a circulation of 250,000 copies. Dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the membership of Grand Duke Henri in the International Olympic Committee. Minted at the Royal Netherlands Mint. Bimetallic, diameter 25.75 mm, weight 8.5 g.
Obverse
The coin depicts a portrait of Grand Duke Henri next to the symbols of the Olympic movement - the characteristic five intertwined rings (blue, yellow, black, green, red) against the background of the Olympic torch or other sports symbols. Inscriptions: "25e ANNIVERSAIRE / S.A.R. LE GRAND-DUC HENRI MEMBR DU CIO” (25th anniversary of His Royal Highness Grand Duke Henri as a member of the IOC), “LËTZEBUERG”, dates “1998-2023”. On the outer ring are the 12 five-pointed stars of the EU.
Reverse
The reverse is the common side of the 2 euro coins of the second type, designed by Luc Luix (Royal Belgian Mint). It depicts a map of Europe as a single continent without internal borders, a symbol of European unity. On the left is a large denomination “2” and the inscription “EURO”, on the right is a map with six thin horizontal lines in the background. On the outer ring are the 12 stars of the European Union. The band is finely fluted and has the inscription "2 ★" repeated six times, alternating upright and inverted.
Historical context
Grand Duke Henri is a long-time supporter of the Olympic movement and an active promoter of sports in Luxembourg. In 1998, while still Hereditary Grand Duke, he was admitted to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as an individual member. This happened at a time when the IOC was actively reforming its structure after scandals surrounding the selection of Olympic cities. Henri participated in IOC meetings, votes for the selection of Olympic host cities, and represented Luxembourg at the Olympic Games. In 2008, after his accession to the throne, his status in the IOC was changed to honorary member. Henri is also the long-time president of the Luxembourg Olympic and Sports Committee (COSL). Sport plays an important role in Luxembourg's culture, and the Grand Duke has become an ambassador and patron of sporting endeavors. The 25th anniversary in 2023 is marked by a commemorative coin.