The German government has decided to mint a €10 collectors’ coin entitled “Fire brigade”, to be issued at 11 May 2023. 

This coin is the second in a series called “In the service of society”. Set to run for several years, the series brings into focus the particular significance of groups of professions that are essential to the functioning of our society and the lives of each and every one of us. Each coin in the series will feature a polymer ring in a colour that is characteristic for the occupational group in question.

The €10 coin “Fire brigade” consists of various cupronickel alloys and a fire-engine-red polymer ring. It weighs 9.8 g, has a diameter of 28.75 mm 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 (€10). 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 Berlin-based artist Lorenz Crössmann (picture side) and Patrick Niesel of Röthenbach an der Pegnitz (reverse).

The central motif on the picture side depicts a fire-fighting team in full protective gear. As well as a wall of flames, the design incorporates aspects of a fire brigade call-out: somebody who has just been rescued is being tended to and the characteristic turntable ladder is set against the backdrop of a city skyline. There is an overriding impression of the vital importance of teamwork in the line of duty. The composition brilliantly underscores the dynamism of the fire service in action.

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 2023, 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 bears the inscription:“IM DIENST DER GESELLSCHAFT” (IN THE SERVICE OF SOCIETY)