In 2026, Monnaie de Paris pays tribute to an icon and one of the most influential women of the 20th century: Marilyn Monroe.
An actress with universal charm and remarkable versatility, Marilyn Monroe was also driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and intellectual fulfilment. She established herself as a progressive figure at a time when opportunities for women were limited. She challenged the status quo of the Hollywood system by founding her own production company, Marilyn Monroe Productions. Famous throughout the world and transcending generations, Marilyn Monroe remains a symbol of glamour and pop culture to this day.
Some important dates:
June 1st, 1926: Birth in Los Angeles of Norma Jeane Mortenson, known as Marilyn Monroe.
June 19th, 1942: She marries James Dougherty at the age of 16.
1944: She begins working at the Radioplane Company factory, where she is noticed by US Army photographers.
1946: With her modeling career launched, she signs her first contract with 20th Century Fox as an actress and adopts her stage name, Marilyn Monroe.
1950s: Her fame skyrockets thanks to cult films such as Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and The Seven Year Itch.
May 19th, 1962: She performs the legendary “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” at Madison Square Garden for President John F. Kennedy’s 45th birthday.
August 5th, 1962: Passing away of Marilyn Monroe.
Marilyn Monroe, born on June 1st, 1926, in Los Angeles, was a model, actress, and singer who left a lasting mark on entire generations through her artistic talent and beauty.
The reverse side represents the main facets of her life under the spotlight:
The film reel;
The singer’s microphone.
All of this is wrapped in a very famous quote from the actress: “We are all stars and we deserve to shine.”
The marks of Monnaie de Paris and that of Joaquin Jimenez, Chief Engraver of Monnaie de Paris, are also present, as well as the year 2026, the face value, and the mention “République Française,” here abbreviated as “RF.”
Three of these collector coins are characterized by free striking, also called historical striking, which gives the coins an old and unique appearance.
