The French 2 euro standard circulation coin features a design by Joaquin Jimenez that serves as a powerful symbol of the nation’s identity within the European Union. At the centre of the national side, the motif depicts a stylised tree enclosed within a hexagon, which represents the geographical shape of mainland France. This design is framed by the motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité', reflecting the core values of the French Republic, and is flanked by the initials of the French Republic. The tree’s roots and branches symbolise growth and the enduring nature of the state, while the surrounding stars represent the unity of the European continent. This standard issue was minted in 2001 with a total mintage of 237,915,793 coins.