Western Europe Coins: Interesting Examples Every Collector Want to Add to The Collection

Western Europe was always an interesting place with a rich culture and history, so it is not surprising that all the features were reflected in coins. These small metal circles served as a means of payment, but also kept the spirit of the times alive, from royal portraits to symbols of national identity. Today, due to modern technology such as coin identification apps, collectors can quickly and accurately determine the rarity, value and authenticity of their finds. And there are indeed many amazing coins in Western European countries that are worth the attention and time to look for. That's today we are talking about 10 interesting coins of Western Europe, which will definitely decorate any collection.

10 Coins Worthy of a Place of Honor in Any Collection

So let us discover the world of Western European coins and look at them by category. Each coin we will discuss below is distinguished by its design, historical value or rarity.

Commemorative coins: an Ode to History

2 Euro: 30 Years of the European Flag (2015)

This coin in the series of commemorative euro issues appeared in honor of the 30th anniversary of the symbol of a united Europe - the European flag. The coin was issued simultaneously in all eurozone countries, and the design contains 12 stars and the flag symbol. However, each country added its own unique touch - national emblem or signature.

Main features:

Collector's tip: Collect the entire set of coins from different countries. Use the Coin ID Scanner app to identify a coin and check its features or historical data, so you'll quickly know which coin you're dealing with.

Interesting fact: Germany minted five different types of coins, distinguished by the letters of the mintmarks: A, D, F, G, J. The complete set is a collector's dream!

5 Euro: Tropical Zones (Germany, 2017)

This coin is part of Germany's famous “Earth's Climate Zones” series. What is interesting is that the design of these coins for the first time used a polymer ring of bright red color, symbolizing tropical zones. This polymer ring is made using innovative technology and is unavailable for counterfeiting.

Main features:

Lifehack for collectors: If you are thinking of purchasing such a coin, please store it in an individual capsule (of high quality and without PVC so that the coin does not fade). Please also consider the storage conditions, as the polymer ring can fade in sunlight.

2 Euro: 100 Years of the End of World War I (France, 2018)

This commemorative coin is dedicated to the most important event of the 20th century - the end of the First World War. That is why the obverse of the coin depicts the symbol of peace - a dove carrying an olive branch in its beak. France issued these coins both in standard sets and in gift versions of PROOF quality (for collectors) with improved minting quality.

Main features:

Collector's tip: Try to find a perfect coin, i.e. without scratches, traces of wear and damage on the dove and branch - such specimens are valued higher.

Circulating Coins with Rare Mintages

50 Pence: Peter Rabbit (United Kingdom, 2016)

This coin from the Beatrix Potter character series was an instant hit with collectors. The reverse of the coin depicts the famous Peter Rabbit, a character from children's fairy tales. In 2016, the coin was nominated for the “Coin of the year” award.

Main features:

Lifehack: You may be concerned about collecting the entire series of coins dedicated to Beatrix Potter characters. Complete sets are more valuable.

1 Euro: Christmas Collection (Finland, 2021)

This limited edition Finnish coin attracted attention with its festive design. The Christmas theme with the image of a Christmas tree and presents makes the coin desirable among collectors. This coin is very popular as a gift. Buy it in its original packaging - it will increase the value.

Main features:

20 Cents: Architectural Wonders - Colosseum (Italy, 2008)

This euro series coin highlights the architectural grandeur of the Colosseum, Rome's famous amphitheater that attracts millions of tourists and symbolizes Italy's cultural heritage. Although the coin is mass produced, its value in a collection increases if it is included in official year sets (UNC or Proof), making them more attractive to collectors.

Main features:

Unique Limited Editions

10 Euro: Silver Coin “Tree of Life” (Austria, 2022)

This silver coin is dedicated to the ancient symbol of harmony and growth, i.e the tree of life. The coin design combines a detailed engraving of a tree nearby the flowers and animals with carefully crafted details. The Austrian Mint issued this series as part of an environmental initiative (to draw attention and act to preserve nature).

Main features:

Collector's tip: The coin is sold in special boxes with certificates of authenticity. Buy only from trusted dealers to avoid fakes.

2 Pounds: Shakespeare Series - Tragedies (United Kingdom, 2016)

Part of the famous series dedicated to the works of William Shakespeare. The reverse of the coin features a skull and rose, which are the symbols of the tragic nature of Shakespeare's plays. By the way, this coin was one of the most popular among British collectors, that is why its value on the secondary market has increased significantly.

Main features:

Collector's tip: Pay attention to the engraving on the edge of the coin. Some issues have rare errors, which makes them even more valuable.

5 Euro: “Polar Bear” Glow-in-the-Dark Coin (Finland, 2020)

The Finnish coin attracts attention with its unusual glow-in-the-dark design (the image of a polar bear glows in the dark thanks to phosphorescent paint). The coin is part of a series dedicated to northern nature and symbolizes care for the environment.

Main features:

Tip: Use an ultraviolet lamp to see the effect - it will impress any collector.

50 Euro: “The Little Prince” Gold Coin (France, 2017)

This coin is dedicated to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's Little Prince, a literary character beloved by millions. The coin combines a touching design with high investment appeal. The reverse shows the Little Prince with a fox against a starry sky.

Main features:

Interesting fact: France issued a whole series of coins dedicated to the book's hero, including silver and platinum versions.

Last Words

Now you may realize that collecting coins is more than just a funny hobby but also a way to view the world through the lens of design, creativity and national symbols. The Western European coins we covered stand out for their originality and appeal.   But no matter be you are an experienced or novice, each of these coins can become an important element of your collection, inspiring new exploration and discovery.