The Vatican 2005 Year Set, known as the "Sede Vacante" Euro Coin Set, was issued during the interregnum following the death of Pope John Paul II on April 2, 2005, and before the election of Pope Benedict XVI. The set is unique as it marks the period of Sede Vacante (Vacant See) when the papal seat is vacant. This set holds significant historical and numismatic value due to its rarity and the importance of the event it represents.
Contents:
The set includes all eight Vatican Euro coins from 2005 in BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) quality:
- 1 Euro Cent
- 2 Euro Cent
- 5 Euro Cent
- 10 Euro Cent
- 20 Euro Cent
- 50 Euro Cent
- 1 Euro
- 2 Euro
Special Features:
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Design Motif:
- All coins bear the coat of arms of the Apostolic Camera, which oversees the administration of the Vatican during the Sede Vacante period.
- The design includes the ombrellino (umbrella) and crossed keys, traditional symbols of the Sede Vacante.
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Packaging:
- The coins are presented in an official Vatican City collector’s folder, featuring the inscription "CITTÀ DEL VATICANO – SEDE VACANTE MMV" (Vatican City – Vacant See 2005).
- The packaging includes details about the significance of the Sede Vacante period and the process of electing a new pope.
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Historical Context:
- This set was issued during a period of transition for the Catholic Church, making it a meaningful representation of a rare event in Vatican history.
Why This Set is Special:
The Vatican 2005 Year Set: Sede Vacante Euro Coins is a unique collector’s item with limited availability due to its historical context. The Sede Vacante sets are only issued during the interregnum between papacies, making this set a valuable and sought-after addition for collectors of Vatican coins and those interested in Catholic Church history.
Celebrate a pivotal moment in Vatican history with this beautifully crafted and historically significant coin set – a must-have for numismatists and history enthusiasts alike!
