Monaco Rainier III 2 Francs

History

2 Francs 1979-1982, KM# 157, Monaco, Rainier III

Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com

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: G. Simon

Obverse	Person (king, queen, tsar etc.) Rainier III Depicts a portrait of Rainier III facing the right surrounded by the inscription "Rainier III, Prince of Monaco". The engraver's name on the left. RAINIER·III·PRINCE·DE·MONACO G.SIMON
Reverse	Crown, jewelry Princely Crown of Monaco Monogram, signature Rainier III Depicts a monogram of Rainier III over the coat of arms, the denomination above, the issue year flanked by the mint (on the left) and privy (on the right) marks. The coat of arms of Monaco serves as the symbolic representation of the House of Grimaldi, the reigning sovereigns of Monaco. It incorporates elements such as the Franciscan Friars, the crown, the collar of the Order of Saint Charles, and a red and argent lozenge, all of which hold historical significance dating back to events relevant to their ascendancy as rulers of Monaco since the 13th century. Mintmark: Cornucopia (Paris Mint) Engraver's general privy mark: dolphin (Rousseau, 1974-1994) 2 FRANCS RR 1979
Edge	Reeded (milled)