50 euro gold 2024 40th anniversary of Villa Madama Agreement

The 40th anniversary of the Villa Madama Agreement (1984–2024), also known as the New Concordat, signed on 18 February 1984 between the Holy See and the Republic of Italy, revising the Lateran Pacts of 1929, is commemorated by this 50 euro gold coin. A symbolically rich and numismatically valuable issue. On the reverse, artist Mariangela Crisciotti illustrates, in the background, the monumental façade of St Peter’s Basilica and, to the left, the architectural sail of Palazzo Montecitorio, seat of the Italian Parliament, two iconic landmarks of spiritual and civil dialogue. In the foreground, an allegorical female figure holds a caduceus in her right hand and a laurel branch in her left. The caduceus, a staff wrapped by two symmetrically entwined serpents, symbolizes reconciliation between opposites. Above, two wings represent promptness, and a helmet signifies exemplary conduct. The laurel branch completes the composition, an ancient symbol of wisdom, victory, and peace.