First published in France in 1946, The Little Prince of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry is much more than a children's story: it is a universal work that spans generations, celebrating poetry, friendship and wonder at the world. Translated into 627 languages and dialects, this timeless story has become one of the most widely read and translated books in the world.
Written and illustrated by Antoine de Saint Exupéry, The Little Prince was first published in 1943 in New York in English and French, before being released in France in 1946 by Gallimard, where it became a bestseller, selling over 15 million copies.
To mark the 80th anniversary of the publication of this iconic work in France, Monnaie de Paris is paying tribute to the little traveller from the stars with a collection illustrating 80 years of adventures and journeys, highlighting the different modes of transport associated with the adventures of The Little Prince. Airplanes, planets, compasses, telescopes and luggage are combined in original designs that call for adventure. The Little Prince is an initiatory tale in which the main character leaves his planet to discover others. By highlighting travel, the Monnaie de Paris also pays direct tribute to Antoine de Saint Exupéry, himself a great traveller through his profession as an aviator.
Designed as a passport to adventure, this duo set includes two coins: the colourised €10 commemorative coin and a colourised €50 commemorative coin sold exclusively in this set.
Regarding the €50 coin: On the obverse, the Little Prince is holding a globe in his arms. He rests his head gently on the planet, in a posture of affection and protection. Here, the Little Prince shows not only that he is universal, but also that he is deeply attached to the Earth and its preservation. A sky made of clouds and stars in the background makes the design dreamy and mysterious. The words ‘Le Petit Prince’ and ‘80 ans’ (80 years) as well as the year 2026 are inscribed on the design.
The reverse side 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.
