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Commemorative coin of the Principality of Monaco, issued in 2017 in a circulation of 15,000 copies. Dedicated to the 200th anniversary of the Prince's Carabinieri. Minted at the Paris Mint. Bimetallic, diameter 25.75 mm, weight 8.5 g.
Obverse
The center of the coin depicts a carabinieri in full dress uniform - a characteristic outfit with white trousers, a dark tunic, and a rumpled hat (bicorns). At the top, along the arc, is the inscription "COMPAGNIE DES CARABINIERS DU PRINCE". Below - "MONACO" and the dates "1817-2017". On the right - the mark of the Paris Mint (cornucopia). On the outer ring are the 12 five-pointed stars of the European Union.
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 - a large denomination "2" and the inscription "EURO", on the right - a map with six thin horizontal lines in the background. On the outer ring are the 12 stars of the European Union. The band - with thin ribbing and the inscription "2 ★", repeated six times alternately upright and inverted.
Historical context
The Compagnie des Carabiniers du Prince (Prince's Carabiniers) is the oldest and most prestigious military unit of the Principality of Monaco, the basis of which was the personal guard of the Prince. Founded on December 8, 1817 by Prince Honoré IV (Honoré IV, 1758-1819) as the "Company of Carabiniers of Honoré IV". Initially, it consisted of about 50 men recruited from the inhabitants of Monaco. The tasks were to protect the Prince's Palace, the personal security of the ruler, and to perform representative functions at ceremonies. Today, the Company has about 124 officers and soldiers: a commander (colonel), staff officers, two combat sections, and a military band. The Carabiniers are known for their ceremonial uniform - white trousers, a black tunic with a red border, a bicorne with a feather, and a saber. The famous daily changing of the guard in front of the Prince's Palace at 11:55 a.m. is the main tourist attraction in Monaco. The Carabiniers also perform a guard of honor during state visits and participate in ceremonies. Over two centuries of existence - a symbol of tradition and sovereignty of Monaco.