Coin for Pope Francis’ first year to be released

(Vatican Radio) On October 8, collectors will be able to purchase the official coin for the first year of Pope Francis’ pontificate.

The front of the coin shows the image of the Holy Father smiling and bestowing his blessing, with the words encircled above him: “Franciscus Pont. Max An. I.” On the reverse side there is an image of the Gospel scene in which Jesus calls Matthew to follow him, encircled by the motto of Pope Francis, in Latin: Vidit ergo Jesus publicanum et quia miserando atque eligendo vidit, ait illi: ‘ ‘sequere me’.” (“Jesus therefore sees the tax collector, and since he sees by having mercy and by choosing, he says to him, ‘follow me’.”)

This passage, taken from a homily delivered by Saint Bede the Venerable, holds special significance for Pope Francis. It was on the feast of Saint Matthew in 1953 that the 17 year old Jorge Mario Bergoglio first experienced, in a particular way, the loving presence of God in his life. After making his confession, he felt God call him to enter the religious life, following the example of Saint Ignatius of Loyola.

Every coin will be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, stamped with the seal of the Secretary of State and of the Italian Mint.

The 44 mm coin, designed by Mariangela Crisciotti and produced by the State Mint and Polygraphic Institute, will be available in gold, silver, and bronze.