Second Republic Silver Coin

Federal President Heinz Fischer

The Federal President of Austria, Heinz Fischer, visited the Vienna Mint on April 26 to ceremonially strike the new silver coin designed for celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the establishment of the Second Republic. “This coin commemorates one of the most important events of Austrian history, and I am proud to have this chance to strike a couple of coins on behalf of the country,” Mr. Fischer said.

The obverse of the 10 Euro sterling silver coin depicts Pallas Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom. Pallas Athena also graces the front of the Austrian National Parliament building. Together with the shields of the nine federal provinces, she represents the Republic itself.

The nine shields are located along the right edge of the coin. Along the upper left edge are the words, “Republik Österreich,” the Republic of Austria. The top portion of the reverse depicts the National Parliament building, located on the inner Ring of the capital, Vienna. The building was designed by Theophil Hansen. A broken chain stylistically flows through the middle of the coin, below which is depicted a cheering crowd, in which all celebrating the beginning of a new and democratic era.

The new silver coin, with a face value of 10 Euros, is struck in proof quality and has a maximum mintage of 60,000. Each proof coin is encapsulated, placed in a presentation case and is accompanied by a numbered certificate of authenticity. There is also a maximum of 40,000 coins issued in special uncirculated quality and placed in a colorful folder with an informative text.

The silver coin became available to the public on May 11, 2005. Collectors in the United States and Canada may purchase the “60th Anniversary of the Second Republic” coin for $33.50 ($41.90 CDN) for the proof edition and $24.50 ($30.60 CDN) for the non-proof edition by calling Euro Collections International toll-free at: 1-888-904-5544.

The coin may also be ordered on-line at: http://www.eurocollections.com