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.
On the obverse, features the famous façade of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral. Between its two towers sits the Little Prince, holding the fox in his arms. In the background of the design, the silhouette of buildings, drawn with a simple line can be seen. The name “Notre-Dame de Paris” is inscribed on the edge of the medal.
On the reverse side is the logo of the Monnaie de Paris, surmounted by the word ‘France’ and surrounded by stars. Around the reverse side, the name ‘France’ is inscribed in different languages.
