The German government has decided to mint a €20 collector coin marking the 75th anniversary of the promulgation of the German Basic Law, to be issued on 23 May 2024. The coin pays tribute to the constitution of the Federal Republic of Germany, which remains the tried and tested foundation of the country’s free democratic constitutional order.

The coin is made of sterling silver (alloy Ag 925). It weighs 18g, has a diameter of 32.5mm and will be made available both in mint condition and with a proof-like finish. The mint condition coins will be brought into circulation at their face value (€20). The issue price of the collector quality coins with a proof-like finish will be higher than their face value. Münze Deutschland (Germany’s official sales agency for collector coins) will announce the exact price and the specific ordering conditions in good time prior to the issue date. The coin was designed by Cologne-based artist Detlef Behr.

On the picture side, the the top right edge is marked with the phrase “75 Jahre Grundgesetz” (75 years of the Basic Law). This theme is actively represented in the centre of the coin by means of a simple but elegant composition featuring the anniversary number “75” and the letters “GG” (for “Grundgesetz”), the acronym commonly used for the Basic Law for the Federal Republic of Germany. The upper third of the coin features the most important fundamental constitutional decision of the Basic Law “DIE WÜRDE DES MENSCHEN IST UNANTASTBAR” (Human dignity shall be inviolable). The curved text evolves into a series of dots, forming a radial pattern that gives the visual impression of a circle. This abstract reference to the layout of seats in the German parliament links the essential importance of human dignity to the country’s basic democratic order. The simple, contemporary design clearly expresses the idea that the Federal Republic of Germany’s Basic Law represents a modern constitution.

The reverse features an eagle framed by the words “BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND”, the value and denomination, the letter “G” for the State Mint of Baden-Württemberg in Karlsruhe, the year 2024, and the twelve stars of Europe. In addition, the words “SILBER 925” are embossed on the reverse.

The coin’s smooth edge bears the inscription:
“IM BEWUSSTSEIN SEINER VERANTWORTUNG” 
(Conscious of their responsibility)