Coin set proof

The Treaties of Rome (Römische Verträge) represented a shift in post-war European history from individual forms of economic cooperation to more comprehensive integration. They were preceded in 1951 by the European Coal and Steel Community (Europäische Gemeinschaft für Kohle und Stahl), through which key industrial sectors were to be jointly controlled. After the failure of a European Defence Community (Europäische Verteidigungsgemeinschaft), the participating states focused more strongly on economic projects. The Foreign Ministers’ Conference of Messina in 1955 and the subsequently prepared Spaak Report paved the way for the new treaties.

The European Economic Community (Europäische Wirtschaftsgemeinschaft) pursued the gradual establishment of a common market. Customs duties between the member states were to be abolished, a common external tariff created, and the free movement of goods, persons, services and capital developed. Common policy areas were also introduced, particularly agriculture, trade and transport. Euratom was intended to coordinate research, safety standards and the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Both Communities began their work in 1958.

Through several treaty reforms, the Communities of that time developed into today’s European Union. The EEC was later renamed the European Community (Europäische Gemeinschaft); its responsibilities ultimately became part of the EU. The original EEC Treaty continues in amended form as the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. Euratom, by contrast, remained a separate treaty-based community.

Capitoline Square is located on Capitoline Hill, a political and religious centre of ancient Rome. Its present layout is based on plans by Michelangelo from the 16th century. The treaties were signed in the Palazzo dei Conservatori, one of the buildings framing the square and now part of the Capitoline Museums (Kapitolinische Museen).

Grand Duke Henri has been head of state of Luxembourg since 2000. His additional portrait on the Luxembourgish version reflects the country’s requirements for depicting the head of state on coins.

The anniversary was chosen for a joint issue because the treaties represent an institutional starting point of today’s EU. It was also the first jointly designed 2-euro commemorative coin issued by the states of the euro area; only the country names and language versions were adapted nationally.