Philately and Numismatics

On 1 August 1877, the first San Marino stamp appeared on the world philatelic scene, more precisely, the first of a series of seven stamps depicting the official coat of arms of the old Republic, i.e. the Three Towers. Since that time, San Marino has always paid particular attention to its stamps, which are indispensable tools for postal communication, but also an expression of sovereignty and an important source of revenue for the country's economy. A clever tool for conveying messages of civilisation and peace, the stamp is also an incredible promotional instrument that freely crosses borders to know more about this small State. Through the stamp, San Marino has participated in special Italian and international events, which have contributed to disseminating knowledge of the country and celebrating cities, landscapes and personalities that have become famous for various reasons. Another aspect, which is even more remarkable, is that these small indented rectangles disseminated worldwide depict various personalities, events, institutions and aspects of San Marino's reality, of which they have preserved the memory.

The very first San Marino coin, issued in 1864 in application of the Monetary Agreement signed in Turin on 22 March 1862 between the Republic of San Marino and the Kingdom of Italy, is the 5 cent copper coin. Politically, it was important to exercise one of the rights of sovereignty and independence enjoyed by San Marino at a time when the various small Italian States were disappearing with the unification of Italy. Currency is indeed the most authentic proof of political existence, economic prosperity and industriousness, even of the freedom of a people. Economically, as recorded in the parliamentary sessions of the time, during which the reasons for the need for a mint were expressed, the aim was “to improve our free existence” and the objective was “to succeed with profit and decency at the same time”. In addition, coins made it possible to swiftly move and exchange goods.
From the first issue to the present day, many series of coins have been minted, and San Marino's gold coins are still a symbol of prestige, originality and autonomy, even after the great event of the single European currency.

Collecting San Marino philatelic and numismatic issues is a long-standing tradition among collectors from all over the world. Such issues are also sought after by laypeople as a souvenir of great artistic value of a visit to the Republic of San Marino.