Shopping Cart
Commemorative coin of 2 euros of Portugal, issued in 2015 with a circulation of 520,000 copies. Dedicated to the 150th anniversary of the Portuguese Red Cross. Minted at INCM, Lisbon. Bimetallic, diameter 25.75 mm, weight 8.5 g.
Obverse
In the center of the coin is the emblem of the Red Cross - a characteristic red cross on a white background - in the form of a stylized image with figures of volunteers helping people. Above - "CRUZ VERMELHA PORTUGUESA", below - "PORTUGAL 1865-2015". INCM mark. On the outer ring are 12 five-pointed EU stars.
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 - 12 stars of the European Union. The band - with thin ribbing and an inscription with five shields alternating with seven castles - motifs of the Portuguese coat of arms.
Historical context
The Portuguese Red Cross (Cruz Vermelha Portuguesa) is a humanitarian organization, a national society of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Founded on 11 February 1865, two years after the foundation of the International Committee of the Red Cross (1863) and one year after the Geneva Convention (1864). The founders were Portuguese doctors and officers, including the Count of Sesimbra, who oversaw the creation of the international movement in 1864. The first statutes were approved by King Luís I. Throughout its history, the Portuguese Red Cross has provided assistance to victims of wars (especially World War I), natural disasters (the Douro floods of 1909, the Lisbon earthquake), famine, epidemics (the Spanish flu of 1918, COVID-19 2020-2023). It also conducts first aid training, water rescue operations, manages hospitals, refugee centers, and programs to support children and the elderly. Today, the organization has about 200 local branches throughout the country. The 2015 coin commemorates the 150th anniversary of this important humanitarian institution.