Animals occupy a central place in the collective
imagination.
Whether familiar or distant, mysterious or majestic, they
inspire a sense of fascination, respect and wonder in all of us. They bear
witness to the beauty and diversity of life, as well as to the fragility of
nature and the strength of the bonds we share with it.
In 2026, the Monnaie de Paris has chosen to celebrate this universal richness through a unique collection dedicated to the animals of the world. From the feline elegance of the tiger to the peaceful power of the elephant, via the grace of the hummingbird and the intelligence of the dolphin, each selected species symbolises a fragment of wildlife and global biodiversity.
There are various animals living in the polar regions, such
as polar bears, penguins and seals, and each has its own unique
characteristics. Whether powerful, agile or playful, these animals are
perfectly adapted to the extreme cold. Fascinating and sometimes awe-inspiring,
they play a vital role in their environment.
A wreath featuring symbols specific to each animal enhances
the trio of depictions on each piece, like a family portrait.
The reverse shows the face value surrounded by two branches,
one of oak and the other of laurel, evoking the Euro symbol. The entire reverse
design is framed by ‘République Française’ and a collection of lines
representing the Hexagon.
