Coin San Marino 2 Euros Commémo. SAINT MARIN 2021 - 450 years of Caravaggio

This 2 euro commemorative coin, minted by San Marino in 2021, pays tribute to the 450th anniversary of the birth of Caravaggio, Michelangelo Merisi. It is presented in an official blister pack.

The coin is bimetallic, with a Nordic gold centre and a cupronickel ring. It weighs 8.5 grams, with a diameter of 25.75 mm and a thickness of 2.20 mm. The mintage of this edition is limited to 54,000 pieces. The strike quality is BU (Brilliant Uncirculated).

The central motif of the coin depicts the Penitent Magdalene, a work housed at the Galleria Doria Pamphilj in Rome. The image portrays Mary Magdalene in a moment of spiritual conversion, turning away from her past life. Her hands gently resting on her knees and the jewels cast to the ground symbolise her renunciation of earthly vanities. A beam of light highlights the divine grace that illuminates her, foreshadowing the dramatic effects characteristic of Caravaggio's style.

The edge of the coin is milled and bears the inscription of the face value "2" followed by a star, repeated six times, alternating between upright and inverted. This feature is common to 2 euro coins issued by the various countries of the eurozone.

Caravaggio, born in 1571, is recognised for having revolutionised the history of art through his realistic approach and his innovative use of light and shadow. His influence can be found throughout subsequent European painting, marking a turning point in artistic expression.