Monaco unveils 2025 €2 coin honouring the Marquisate of Les Baux

As part of a new commemorative series launched in 2025, the Principality of Monaco is issuing a €2 proof coin dedicated to the historic Marquisate of Les Baux — a symbolic title held by Hereditary Prince Jacques since birth.

The release forms part of a wider initiative marking the 10th anniversary of the Grimaldi Historic Sites of Monaco network, which celebrates the family’s feudal heritage across France and beyond through heritage tourism and cultural promotion.

Following the earlier 2025 release of a coin dedicated to the County of Carladès — a title held by Princess Gabriella — this new issue focuses on Les Baux-de-Provence in the Bouches-du-Rhône region. The territory was granted to the Grimaldi dynasty by King Louis XIII in 1642, specifically to Honoré II for his son Hercule.

The obverse of the coin depicts a general view of the rocky outcrop and ruined medieval fortress of Les Baux-de-Provence. A subtle heraldic background features both the silver-and-red fusily pattern of the Grimaldi arms and a sixteen-pointed silver star, a symbol tied to the legend of the medieval Lords of Baux who claimed descent from Balthazar, one of the Biblical Magi. The family’s motto, “A l’asard Bautezar” — a Provençal phrase meaning “By chance, Balthazar” — is a nod to this storied lineage.

In a symbolic gesture of continuity, Prince Albert II remains the owner of the Sainte-Catherine chapel ruins at the site.

The new coin will be available for purchase starting 4th November through the official website of Monaco’s Museum of Stamps and Coins: mtm-monaco.mc.

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