A stamp and a coin to celebrate a day set to go down in the Republic’s history. Ahead of the visit of Pope Leo XIV, scheduled for Saturday, August 22, Poste San Marino has released two commemorative issues dedicated to the event, designed to preserve the memory of an occasion that marks a new chapter in relations between the Republic and the Holy See.
The Pontiff’s visit carries particular significance, as it represents the return of a Pope to Mount Titano fifteen years after the visit of Benedict XVI in 2011, and coincides with the centenary of diplomatic relations between San Marino and the Holy See, making 2026 a year of special importance for relations between the two states.
Among the new releases presented by Poste San Marino is a commemorative 3-euro coin, struck in copper in brilliant uncirculated quality, depicting Saint Marinus, founder of the Republic, and Saint Peter, evoking the shared Christian roots of the two states and values such as freedom, peace and hospitality. The obverse was designed by Antonella Napolione, while the reverse bears the signature of Silvia Petrassi. The coin will come in a dedicated case and will be issued in a limited run of 3,000 pieces.
Alongside the coin, a commemorative philatelic sheet will also be released, available in a collector’s folder as well. The artwork, created by artist Francesca Protopapa, depicts the arrival of Pope Leo XIV on Mount Titano, welcomed by Saint Marinus, in a scene that evokes the historic and symbolic weight of the visit. The issue will be printed in 20,000 copies and will include a stamp valued at €2.90.
According to Poste San Marino, the two issues stand as a lasting tribute to a day of great historical, institutional and religious significance, while also offering an appealing addition for collectors and enthusiasts of philately and numismatics.
The stamp and coin will go on sale from Saturday, August 22, the day of the Pontiff’s visit, on the Poste San Marino website and at the Philatelic and Numismatic Shop at Piazzetta Garibaldi 5, in the historic centre of the City of San Marino.
