Obverse: The set consists of eight 2004 San Marino euro coins ranging from 1 cent to 2 euros. The national side of each denomination features a different symbol associated with the history and statehood of San Marino. The 1 cent coin depicts the Montale Tower, the 2 cent coin the Statue of Liberty, the 5 cent coin the Guaita Tower, the 10 cent coin the Basilica of San Marino, the 20 cent coin Saint Marinus, the 50 cent coin the Three Towers of San Marino, the 1 euro coin the national coat of arms, and the 2 euro coin Palazzo Pubblico, the government palace of San Marino. The coins also feature the year 2004, the inscription SAN MARINO, the R mint mark of the Rome Mint and the 12 stars of the European Union.
Reverse: The reverse of the coins features the common European Union design used at the time for each respective euro denomination. The 1, 2 and 5 cent coins depict Europe in relation to the world, the 10, 20 and 50 cent coins feature a map of the European Union member states, while the 1 and 2 euro coins show a map of Europe. The designs also feature 12 stars symbolising the European Union.
About the coins: The 2004 San Marino euro coin set belongs to the countrys first series of euro coin designs, used following the introduction of the euro in San Marino in 2002. Although San Marino is not a member of the European Union, under a monetary agreement with the European Union the country is entitled to issue its own euro coins, which are legal tender throughout the euro area. The coins in the set feature the most important symbols and architectural landmarks of the small republic, as well as its founder Saint Marinus. San Marino euro coins are issued in relatively limited quantities, making the annual coin sets particularly popular among euro coin collectors.
