In 2000 to celebrate the new Millennium and Yves Saint Laurent, the Monnaie de Paris released a very Limited Issue 10 Ten Franc Silver Proof Coin struck in solid .900 Silver.
This innovative design symbolising transition and reflecting the nation's heritage appropriately commemorates the new Millennium in France. As the first designer to have drawn his inspiration from the street and the first living couturier to have had his work exhibited in a museum, it is fitting that Yves Saint Laurent should have been chosen to open a new chapter in French coinage.
The obverse bears his signature and an image of his first show in 1962, a show that was totally to change the course of fashion history. His talisman heart is the principal design feature on the reverse, a collage taken from his New Year's greeting cards. This symbol of love is very important to the House of Yves Saint Laurent, the design being based on a heart-shaped brooch which was featured in every collection presented by the House since the first Haute Couture show in 1962.
The reverse carries the circumscription "Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite", embodying the ideals, of the French Revolution and reflecting the passionate desire of the French for freedom and equality. These legal tender coins have been struck to proof quality using specially prepared dies and highly polished blanks.
