Centenary of Spain's Olympic Committee

Introduction

The year 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the creation of Spain's Olympic Committee.

The first time Spain took part in the Olympic Games that there is written evidence of, dates back to 1900, when the Asturian nobleman Don Pedro Pidal y Bernaldo de Quiros, the Marquis of Villaviciosa, competed in the Paris Olympics in the sport of Clay-pigeon Shooting. He placed second, also becoming Spain's first Olympic medalist. However, it was not until some years later, in 1912, that the Spanish Olympic Committee was formed.

Subsequent to the assassination of Jose Canalejas in November of 1912, the position of President of the Council of Ministers was filled by Don Alvaro de Figueroa y Torres, the Count of Romanones.  His brother, Don Gonzalo de Figueroa y Torres, the Count of Mejorada del Campo and Marquis of Villamejor, was, furthermore, a member of Spain's International Olympic Committee.

The new President undoubtedly brought his influence to bear on his brother, whom he convinced, exhilarated and motivated in the sphere of the Olympic functions. This ushered in a new period that began with the creation of Spain's Olympic Committee on November 23, 1912.

To mark the occasion of the Centenary of Spain's Olympic Committee, a new collector coin featuring legends and motifs dedicated to this organization was struck by the Spanish Royal Mint

BOE: Orden ministerial (ECC/960/2012)

Details - 8 reales silver - Centenary of Spain's Olympic Committee

The coin reverse reproduces the image of two Greek athletes in the course of running a race. Some lines resemble a racetrack. The lower part of the coin depicts the logotype of the Centenary of Spain's Olympic Committee.

The obverse of the sterling silver coin bears a likeness of H.M. King Juan Carlos.

Detalle Centenario del Comité Olímpico Español
Name Composition Face Value Weight Diameter Quality Mint run
8 reales .925 sterling silver 10 € 27 g 40 mm Proof 10.000

 

Prices

Official retail price in Spain, excluding any relevant taxes:

Individual coin

8 reales silver - 50 Euros