Obverse: The centre of the coin features a stylised architectural floor plan of St. Peter's Basilica, illustrating the layout of the famous Vatican sanctuary. The upper section bears the face value „1 1/2 EURO“, while the lower section displays the year of issue „2006“ and the initials of the French Republic „RF“. Along the lower edge appears the French national motto „LIBERTÉ – ÉGALITÉ – FRATERNITÉ“ („Liberty, Equality, Fraternity“).
Reverse: The centre of the coin depicts a bust of Pope Benedict XVI with his arms outstretched, symbolising faith, blessing and openness towards the faithful. In the background stands the impressive façade of St. Peter's Basilica with its famous dome, one of the most recognisable symbols of the Vatican. The upper section bears the inscription „500 ANS DE LA BASILIQUE SAINT-PIERRE“ („500 Years of St. Peter's Basilica“).
About the coin: Issued in 2006 by the French Mint „Monnaie de Paris“, this commemorative silver coin celebrates the 500th anniversary of the beginning of the construction of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. Construction of the present basilica began on 18 April 1506, during the pontificate of Pope Julius II, and was completed in 1626. Renowned artists and architects, including Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, contributed to the creation of this extraordinary Renaissance and Baroque architectural monument. The basilica was built on the site of an earlier fourth-century church and, according to Catholic tradition, marks the burial place of St. Peter the Apostle. The reverse features Pope Benedict XVI, who led the Catholic Church from 2005 to 2013. The coin is struck from .900 fine silver, with a total weight of 22.2 g, a pure silver content of 19.98 g, a diameter of 37 mm and a face value of 1.5 euros. This coin combines the traditions of French numismatics with the history of one of the most important architectural landmarks in the Christian world.
