In celebration of Lacoste’s remarkable 90th anniversary, a unique and exceptional piece has been crafted to commemorate this milestone in the French Excellence series. Joaquin Jimenez, the esteemed General Engraver at Monnaie de Paris, delved deep into the rich archives of Lacoste, conceiving a one-of-a-kind, crocodile-shaped coin that perfectly embodies the spirit and legacy of the brand. This masterful creation features an intricate design on the obverse, where the iconic crocodile clutches a tennis ball in its jaws—a heartfelt homage to René Lacoste, the legendary tennis champion and visionary founder. The coin beautifully showcases three distinctive textures: the rugged crocodile skin on the head, the emblematic piqué pattern on the body—a testament to Lacoste’s signature craftsmanship—and a golf ball pattern on the tail, nodding to the beloved sport of Simone Thion de La Chaume, René’s wife and an esteemed champion in her own right. These textures, each treated with varying perspectives, bring a dynamic sense of movement to the piece.
Engraved above the crocodile are the core values that Lacoste holds dear—team spirit, passion, fair play, effort, tenacity, elegance, performance—reflecting the brand’s enduring commitment to excellence. The reverse side of the coin portrays a sandy backdrop reminiscent of the Roland-Garros clay courts, a symbol of Lacoste’s longstanding partnership and René Lacoste’s triumphant victories. Detailed lines mimic the iconic courts, alongside the coin’s face value, its year of manufacture, and the pivotal year of 1933, marking the inception of Maison Lacoste. Completing this exquisite design, René Lacoste’s silhouette in action on the court connects both sides of the coin, symbolising the timeless legacy of the brand. This exclusive coin is not just a collector’s item but a celebration of Lacoste’s 90 years of innovation, excellence, and a profound connection to the world of sports.
Technical Specifications:
Weight: 1 KG
Quality: Proof
Mintage: 12
Year: 2023
Face Value: €5000
