New €5 Coins Set to Launch: Here’s How to Identify Them
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Collection Coins of the Eurozone
For several years now, various countries within the Eurozone have been issuing collectible €5 coins.
While Italy is not expecting new releases this year, in 2024, the Banco de Portugal, the central bank of Portugal, has plans to launch a series of exciting new collection coins.
Among these, a commemorative €5 coin will celebrate the iconic Portuguese band Xutos e Pontapés.
This limited-edition coin, titled “Xutos e Pontapés, Rock ‘n’ Roll since 1979,” will be available starting September 4 and is part of the “Portuguese Musicians” series.
It represents just one of six launches scheduled for this year, alongside coins worth €2 and €7.50, each of which, although collectible, carries its specific face value.
Design and Features
This new €5 collector coin features the “X,” the band’s first graphic symbol, prominently on the obverse.
To the left, it includes the phrase “Rock ‘n’ Roll since 1979.” The upper left edge also displays “Xutos & Pontapés,” followed by the coin’s nominal value.
The reverse showcases two crossed forearms, a significant iconographic gesture of the band, along with inscriptions that read “Casa da Moeda,” “Portugal,” the year “2024,” the creator’s name, and a motif of five stars.
The coin distribution to the public will occur through banking institutions, the treasury of Banco de Portugal, and the Imprensa Nacional-Casa da Moeda shops.
A limited mintage of 30,000 coins ensures its exclusivity.
The Purpose of €5 Coins
These new €5 coins hold the same monetary value as standard €5 banknotes, making them legal tender.
However, due to their collectible nature, they are rarely used for everyday transactions.
When purchasing, it’s crucial to verify their authenticity.
Banco de Portugal recommends checking specific features, such as reliefs and magnetic properties, detailed on their official website for proper validation.
Retailers are obligated to accept collectible coins, but consumers are not required to use them for payment.
If a merchant declines them, alternate payment methods can be requested.
Note that vending machines programmed for standard coins may reject these unique collector coins, particularly the €5 and €7.50 ones, as they are not typically in regular circulation.
These collector coins are valid solely in Portugal and might not be accepted elsewhere.
Investment Potential of €5 Collector Coins
While the nominal value is set at €5 and €7.50, collectible coins can often fetch higher prices due to their special finishes, precious metal use, or unique packaging.
For collectors, purchasing at nominal value can be a wise investment, as future value may increase based on market demand dynamics.
To avoid scams, it is advisable to thoroughly understand the specific characteristics of these coins and refer to information from the central bank for guidance.
€5 Coins in Italy
Nearly every country in the Eurozone has minted collectible €5 coins since adopting the euro.
Italy, for instance, began issuing its own in silver starting in 2003, celebrating various events and figures, including Raffaella Carrà, Ennio Morricone, the 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing, and the Centenary of the Alpini Association.
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