The Italian 2 euro standard circulation coin features a portrait of Dante Alighieri, the celebrated medieval poet and author of the Divine Comedy. This iconic design, originally created by Maria Angela Cassol, pays homage to one of the most influential figures in Italian literature and the development of the Italian language. The profile of the poet is rendered in a classical style, reflecting Italy's deep-rooted connection to its cultural heritage and the Renaissance tradition. Surrounding the portrait, the design incorporates the letters RI, standing for Repubblica Italiana, alongside the year of issue and the mint mark. This standard national side remains a consistent symbol of Italy's identity within the eurozone. The mintage for this 2005 issue is 61,943,900 coins.