Brussels, September 25, 2026 – The SPF Finances has presented a Belgian 2 euro commemorative coin to celebrate the jubilees of two Belgian scientific institutions: the 200th anniversary of the Royal Observatory of Belgium and the 50th anniversary of the National Geographic Institute (IGN). The coin, which pays tribute to these two organizations, is exclusively available from the Royal Belgian Mint.
Minister of Finance, Jan Jambon, highlighted the importance of these institutions' work, extending beyond observing the sky and mapping the terrain. He emphasized their contribution to understanding societal challenges and finding solutions, thanking the Royal Mint for this scientific tribute.
Vanessa Matz, Minister of Public Action and Modernization, recalled that the Royal Observatory and the IGN have been advancing our understanding of the Earth, the Sun, and the Universe for centuries. She stressed the role of knowledge as a lever for preparing the future, particularly in the face of climate change and space exploration.
Founded on June 8, 1826, the Royal Observatory of Brussels (now Royal Observatory of Belgium) has a long history. The IGN, established by law on June 8, 1976, is part of a rich Belgian military and scientific tradition. These two pillars of Belgian scientific heritage have seen impressive development and actively contribute to current societal challenges.
Ronald Van der Linden, Director-General of the Observatory, described the coin's issuance as an "exceptional recognition of 200 years of scientific excellence," firmly looking towards the future. Ingrid Vanden Berghe, Administrator-General of the IGN, characterized the institute as "Deeply rooted in history. Younger than ever. Ready for the future," emphasizing innovation and preparedness for the next 50 years.
The design of the 2 euro coin features a child standing on a geographical map, pointing towards the universe, symbolizing the IGN and the Royal Observatory. The names of the two institutions are inscribed around it in English. The country code 'BE', the Mint Master's mark, and the mark of the Royal Dutch Mint, responsible for production, complete the design.
Three versions of the coin are available: Brilliant Uncirculated (BU), Proof, and Reverse Proof. Mintage is limited to 125,000 BU, 4,000 Proof, and 3,500 Reverse Proof coins respectively. All coins are legal tender in the Eurozone but will not be put into circulation. Orders can be placed starting today at www.piecescommemoratives.be.
