The election of Pope Leo XIV this spring has sparked renewed interest in Vatican City coinage as collectors look back on the remarkable numismatic legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis. Each papacy has long left its mark on world numismatics, but the transition from Francis to Leo XIV — the first U.S.-born pope — has brought a fresh wave of excitement among collectors who follow religious and papal coinage. Continue reading →
Italian coin designer Chiara Principe produced the designs for two medals, including the annual pontifical medals from 2014 (top) and 2018 (biottom), placed in Pope Francis’ coffin during his April funeral. Photos via Chiara Principe.
