Animals occupy an essential place in the collective imagination.
Whether familiar or distant, mysterious or majestic, they awaken fascination, respect, and wonder in each of us. They bear witness to the beauty and diversity of life, as well as to the fragility of nature and the strength of the bonds we maintain with it.
In 2026, the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint) chose to celebrate this universal richness through a unique collection dedicated to the animals of the world. From the feline elegance of the tiger to the peaceful power of the elephant, via the grace of the hummingbird or the intelligence of the dolphin, each selected species symbolizes a fragment of wildlife and planetary biodiversity.
The panda, the red panda, and the koala share many similarities that make them very endearing. Calm and gentle, these animals are known for their close relationship with their environment. Fascinating and sometimes fragile, they symbolize the beauty of an environment that must be preserved.
A crown incorporating symbols specific to each animal enhances the trio representations of each piece, like a family portrait.
The common reverse features the face value surrounded by two branches, one of oak and the other of laurel, evoking the Euro symbol. The entire reverse design is framed by "République Française" and a series of lines representing the Hexagon.