Greece 2-EURO (KM188)

Zeus as a Bull

The Greek 2-euro coin features the abduction of Europa by Zeus, who appears here as a white bull.

Europa was a high-born Phoenician woman (who ultimately lent her name to Europe) and Zeus wanted her. He changed into the white bull and mixed in with Europa's father's herd. When Europa noticed him, she caressed his flank, then got on his back. Zeus took that as a "yes" and absconded off with her to the island of Crete, where she became the island's first queen.

Greece switched to the euro in 2002. This same story is depicted on Cyprus' 50-cent coin (KM66).


Diameter
25.6 mm
Composition
Nickel-brass-clad nickel in Copper-Nickel ring
Catalogue #
KM188
Obverse Legend
2 ΕΥΡΩ ΕΥΡΩΠΗ ΓΣ
Reverse Legend
2 EURO LL
Edge Legend
ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΗΜΟΚΡΑΤΙΑ

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