Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 20 Francs 1992-1997, KM# 165, Monaco, Rainier III
  • 20 Francs 1992-1997, KM# 165, Monaco, Rainier III
  • 20 Francs 1992-1997, KM# 165, Monaco, Rainier III, Essai
Description

Rainier III (Rainier Louis Henri Maxence Bertrand Grimaldi; 1923–2005) ruled the Principality of Monaco for almost 56 years, making him one of the longest ruling monarchs in European history. Though internationally known for his marriage to the American actress Grace Kelly, he was also responsible for reforms to Monaco's constitution and for expanding the principality's economy beyond its traditional casino gambling base. Gambling accounts for only approximately three percent of the nation's annual revenue today; when Rainier ascended the throne in 1949, it accounted for more than 95 percent.

Engraver: Roger Bertrand Baron

Obverse

Depicts the Prince's Palace of Monaco, the inscription divided by the princely crown above, the engraver's name below, and the Grimaldi motto (Latin for "With God's help") on the bottom.

The Prince's Palace of Monaco serves as the official dwelling of the Sovereign Prince of Monaco. Originally erected in 1191 as a Genoese stronghold, it has weathered numerous assaults and sieges from various foreign forces throughout its extensive and often tumultuous past. Since the latter part of the 13th century, it has stood as the bastion and residence of the Grimaldi family, who initially seized control of it in 1297. Initially governing the region as feudal lords, the Grimaldi transitioned to sovereign princes from the 17th century onwards, albeit their authority often hinged on delicate agreements with more powerful neighboring entities.

As a result, while counterparts across Europe were constructing opulent Renaissance and Baroque palaces, the political landscape and pragmatic considerations necessitated the fortification of the Monegasque rulers' abode. This distinctive requirement, occurring relatively late in history, renders the palace in Monaco one of the continent's most remarkable edifices. When its fortifications were eventually relaxed in the late 18th century, the palace fell under French control, losing its riches and descending into disrepair, while the Grimaldi endured a 20-year exile.

PALAIS PRINCIER
R.B.BARON
DEO JUVANTE

Reverse

Depicts a value and Rainier III's monogram within the circle, surrounded by the country name above and date flanked by the mint (left) and privy (right) marks below.

Mint mark of the Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris in Pessac): Cornucopia (horn of plenty)

Privy mark of the Mint's Chief Engravers:
• dolphin (Emile Rousseau , 1974-1994)
• bee (Pierre Rodier, 1994-2000)

PRINCIPAUTÉ DE MONACO
RR
20F
1995

Edge

20 Francs

KM# 165 Gadoury# MC161
Characteristics
Material Tri-Metallic
Outer ring Copper Aluminum
Inner ring Cupronickel
Center Copper Aluminum
Weight 9 g
Diameter 26.8 mm
Thickness 0.3 mm
Shape round
Alignment Coin
Mint
Paris Mint (A)

Related coins

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