Manolis Andronicos (1919-1992) was one of Greece’s greatest archaeologists. His discovery of the royal tombs at Vergina in 1977 brought to light exquisite finds that attest to the splendour of ancient Macedonian civilisation. The design features a portrait of Manolis Andronicos. Inscribed along the inner edge at left is the name ‘MANOLIS ANDRONICOS 1919-1992’, along with the minting year and a palmette (mintmark of the Greek Mint); inscribed along the inner edge at right is the wording ‘HELLENIC REPUBLIC’. Also visible at the right is the monogram of the artist (George Stamatopoulos). The coin’s outer ring bears the 12 stars of the European Union. (Source: ecb.europa.eu)