2021 Austria Copper €5 New Year's: Janus

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This intriguing copper coin from the Austrian Mint marks the arrival of 2021 by looking both backward and forward. Struck in a quarter ounce of copper, the piece belongs to a celebrated New Year series. Its design draws directly from ancient Roman traditions, where citizens paid homage to Janus on the first day of the year to invite good fortune. Janus, the deity of beginnings and transitions, even gave his name to the month of January. The obverse side of the coin features a striking dual portrait of Janus. One face appears aged and bearded, representing the past, while the other face is youthful, looking toward the future. Behind the deity, the doors of his temple in the Roman Forum are visible. A clock face, a starry night sky, and a brilliant sun decorate the edge of the design, emphasizing the passage of time. On the reverse, an intricately decorated key serves as the central motif. The year 2021 is elegantly integrated into the bow of the key, symbolizing the opening of a new chapter. With a mintage of 200,000 pieces, this coin beautifully connects modern New Year celebrations with ancient Roman mythology.