The German government has decided to mint a €5 collectors’ coin entitled “Ariane 6”, to be issued at 10 September 2026. The coin is the first in a series, “Exploration of space”, which will see a total of five coins with partially coloured motifs be issued over the period 2026‑28. The series focuses on one of the most spectacular areas of space travel, which is of central importance for the future of our society in the face of global challenges.

The coin is made of a cupronickel alloy. It weighs 9.68 g, has a diameter and will be available both in mint condition and with a proof-like finish. The mint condition coins will be brought into circulation at their face value (€5). The collector quality coins with a proof-like finish will be higher than their face value and will be issued by the Münze Deutschland (Germany’s official sales agency for collector coins).

The coin was designed by Sascha Morawetz, an artist based in Hamburg (picture side), and Till Mainz, a Berlin-based artist (reverse).

The motif on the picture side is divided into two halves: a technical diagram of two versions of the rocket and a visual representation of the rocket in front of planet Earth. The orbit paths around the planet tie the images together skilfully and create a dynamic overall picture. The inscription “Ariane 6” curves to follow one of the orbit paths. The use of colour for planet Earth highlights the shape of the rocket.

The reverse, which will be used for all coins in the series, features an eagle framed by the words “BUNDESREPUBLIK DEUTSCHLAND”, the value and denomination, the year 2026, the twelve stars of Europe and the mint mark “A” (Berlin), “D” (Munich), “F” (Stuttgart), “G” (Karlsruhe) or “J” (Hamburg), depending on where the coin was minted.

The coin’s smooth edge is engraved with the inscription:
“ERFORSCHUNG DES WELTRAUMS” (Exploration of space).