100 years after the first edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the world's greatest endurance race celebrates 100 years of emotions, speed and performance. To mark this centenary, Monnaie de Paris is paying tribute to this legendary competition by creating a brand new trophy for the occasion and minting a collection of gold and silver coins.

The obverse of this collector coin features two racing cars on a 24-hour clock. The reverse polishing on the top of the coin distinguishes between day and night, providing additional contrast and depth of reading. The headlights of the vehicle driving at night illuminate the "100" of the 24H of the Mans centenary, while lighting the way beyond this edition of the competition. 

On the reverse, we find two portraits of drivers facing each other. The face on the left suggests a driver from the beginning of the 20th century, taking part in the first edition of the Automobile Club de l'Ouest's endurance grand prix, while the face on the right shows the evolution of a century of motor racing. The layout of the 24H circuit acts here as a mirror, a window opening on the past but also on the future.

The Le Mans 24 Hour race, officially titled "24 Heures du Mans", is one of the most prestigious and historic endurance motorsport events in the world. Held annually since 1923 in the town of Le Mans, France, this gruelling race challenges teams to push the limits of human and mechanical endurance. Over a circuit that extends for more than 13 kilometers, teams race day and night, battling not only their competitors but also the unpredictable elements and fatigue. Throughout its storied history, Le Mans has seen dramatic finishes, ground-breaking technological advancements, and legendary drivers like Steve McQueen, who not only raced but also featured the event in his 1971 film, "Le Mans." Earning a victory at Le Mans is considered one of the greatest achievements in motorsport, on par with winning the Formula One World Championship or the Indianapolis 500.

Entirely conceived and manufactured in France, these coins were designed by Joaquin Jiménez, General Engraver of the Monnaie de Paris, who was also behind the creation of the 24 Hours of Le Mans centennial trophy.