Why was copper chosen for the new euro coins?
Copper and its alloys were chosen for the new euro coins based on a number of key performance criteria. Firstly, copper is a naturally anti-bacterial material and rarely causes allergic reactions, particularly important given the everyday handling of coins. Secondly, copper is 100% recyclable, without any loss of quality, supporting the goals of a sustainable future. Thirdly, copper s technological properties will ensure that the new coins retain their visual identity throughout their useful life, its precise electrical conductivity will minimise the risk of fraud in vending machines and its excellent formability will offer precise touch and feel for the visually impaired. The enclosed Euro-copper coin tour pack, issued to editors attending tours of the European mints, contains further information on copper and the euro. Tours of the Spanish, Belgium, German, Italian and French mints have already taken place and further tours are to be arranged. The tours are the brainchild of the Euro
