Republic of Seychelles 2013 - Election of Pope Francis - Uncirculated Cupro Nickel Rupees

An incredible coin celebrates the making of history

With the world in shock at the sudden resignation of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, the Vatican was mobilised in its search for a new Pope. On the 12th March 2013, 115 eligible Cardinals entered into the conclave to elect a successor. The successor, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Archbishop of Buenos Aires, chosen after five ballots, saw his election confirmed with the appearance of white smoke from the Sistine Chapel as is traditional.

A number of firsts, Archbishop Bergoglio chose the name Pope Francis in memory of St. Francis of Assisi; he is the only Pope to have taken this name. He is also the first Jesuit and the first Latin American to be elected Pope, and the first non-European to be elected as Pope since Pope Gregory III in 731 AD.

The Republic of Seychelles is predominantly Catholic and has issued coins in the past depicting both His Holiness Pope John Paul II and his Holiness Pope Benedict XVI.  This incredible collector’s coin is a must for every collection – and with this beautiful Goldclad® edition will create a very special souvenir of this unique occasion.