Vatican 50 Cent 2017 UNC

This is the 2017 Vatican 50 cent coin. The Vatican has issued Euro coins since the introduction of the Euro in 2002. Normally the image of the current Pope is displayed on the Vatican's coins. The present Pope, Franciscus I, has decided in his simplicity that his image does not need to be shown on the Vatican's coins. His image was replaced by the Papal Coat of Arms with effect from 2017. The current Papal Coat of Arms is the crest that Franciscus has used since 1991 when he became a Bishop of Argentina. At the top of the crest is a mitre with the two keys of Peter. Centred on the coin are the letters IHS of Christ with a cross above. There are also three black nails. The star refers to Mary and the grass refers to Joseph. At the bottom of the coat of arms the Pope's motto is shown. This motto is æMiserande Atque ElegendoÆ (Selected by Grace). Centred on this 2017 Vatican 50 cent coin is the Papal Coat of Arms circled around which is the country name Citta del Vaticano. On the right-hand side of the coin is t he year 2017. This 50 cent coin is the only single coin that the Vatican will issue in the year 2017. The coin is packaged in an airtight printed coin holder.