The Federal Government has decided to mint a €20 commemorative coin marking the 125th anniversary of the birth of Erich Kästner (23 February 1899 – 29 July 1974), one of Germany’s most well-known authors, to be issued on 5 September 2024. Erich Kästner is one of the most translated authors of the 20th century.

The coin is made of sterling silver (alloy Ag 925). It weighs 18 g, has a diameter of 32.5mm and will be made available both in mint condition and with a proof-like finish. The mint condition coins will be brought into circulation at their face value (€20). The issue price of the collector quality coins with a proof-like finish will be higher than their face value.

The coin was designed by Jordi Truxa, an artist based in Neuenhagen bei Berlin. The image on the picture side is divided into three planes. In the background is a line drawing portrait of Erich Kästner, depicting the discerning author and his positive outlook in the latter years of his life. The background and middle ground are brought together by the author’s name in block capitals, which crowns a decoratively arranged stack of books. The topmost volume is the story of his life, spanning from 1899 to 1974, followed by a series of his best-known novels for children. These are emphasised by the accomplished use of colour, drawing on the palette of the illustrator Walter Trier. The middle ground and the foreground are also thematically intertwined. The two children at the front of the image represent the child characters in Kästner’s novels, as well as their target audience. The composition excellently captures the timeless, intergenerational significance of his work.

The reverse features an eagle, the words “BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND”, the value and denomination, the letter “D” for the Bavarian State Mint, the year 2024, and the twelve stars of Europe. In addition, the words “SILBER 925” are marked on the reverse.

The coin’s smooth edge is engraved with the inscription: “ES GIBT NICHTS GUTES / AUẞER: MAN TUT ES ●” (“Nothing good happens unless you make it happen”).