Cyprus Issues €5 Silver Coin to Mark EU Council Presidency

By Bosphorus News Geopolitics Desk

The Central Bank of Cyprus said the limited-edition silver coin was issued to mark the country’s 2026 presidency of the Council of the European Union, with the design drawing on the myth of Rigaina’s castles and the presidency’s official logo.

The Central Bank said the coin carries a nominal value of €5, was issued in proof condition with mint year 2026, and was released on the occasion of the Republic of Cyprus assuming the rotating EU Council presidency for the first half of the year.

According to the official announcement, the design references the myth of Rigaina’s castles and also includes the logo of the Cyprus presidency. The presidency’s official programme says Cyprus holds the role under the motto “An Autonomous Union. Open to the World.” from January through June 2026.

The coin was designed by George Stamatopoulos and minted by the Bank of Greece Printing Works Department, the Central Bank said.

The issue is limited to 2,000 pieces, each priced at €65 including VAT. The Central Bank said the coin is composed of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent copper, with a weight of 28.28 grams and a diameter of 38.61 mm.

The Central Bank also outlined a two-phase sales process beginning on March 16, 2026, with initial access for dealers, collectors and organizations before broader public availability.

The release fits into Cyprus’ broader visual and cultural branding around its 2026 EU Council presidency, which the official presidency website describes as the country’s second turn in the role since joining the European Union.