SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 4, 2025 – DS Automobiles and the French Mint have announced a partnership to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the iconic DS with the creation of a special collector's coin. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for both organizations, highlighting their shared appreciation for beauty, technical innovation, and French heritage.
A Tribute to Automotive Excellence
The DS, first introduced on October 6, 1955, at the Paris Motor Show, quickly became a phenomenon. Its revolutionary design, conceived by Flaminio Bertoni, combined avant-garde aesthetics with groundbreaking technology. Engineers André Lefèbvre and Paul Magès contributed significantly to the DS's innovations, with Lefèbvre's focus on front-wheel drive, aerodynamics, and weight distribution, and Magès's invention of the hydropneumatic suspension and hydraulic assistance for steering, clutch, and braking. "The DS is a true symbol of French design and expertise with its unique lines and revolutionary comfort," says Joaquin Jimenez, French Mint Engraver General. "In designing this coin, I wanted to reflect this elegance and innovation that has impressed generations and become a legend.” The DS's impact on the automotive world is undeniable, with nearly 1.5 million units produced over two decades. Its legacy continues today through DS Automobiles, which embodies the French art of travel.
A Unique Commemorative Coin
The centerpiece of this celebration is a limited-edition silver 10 EURO coin. This coin showcases a 1975 DS 23 with its swiveling headlights, illuminated in gold, juxtaposed against a 1955 DS 19. This design symbolizes the evolution of the DS over time. The reverse side of the coin features the "DS" name, "1955" (the year of the first model), "RF" (République Française), and "2025" (the year of the coin's release). The standard reverse design for these 10€ coins features the face value surrounded by oak and laurel branches, with lines representing France. “The automotive world and French Mint have a distinct taste for beauty and technical innovation in common," notes Marc Schwartz, French Mint CEO. "It seemed natural for us to mark the 70th anniversary of a legendary vehicle: the DS, a unique opportunity to showcase the expertise of our organizations. Enthusiasts will appreciate all the references focused on this collection event’s coins.”
A Collector's Item and More
Limited to 5,000 pieces, the coin is available for purchase for €15. This makes it not only a valuable collector's item but also a unique gift for car enthusiasts and collectors. The coin made its international debut at the World Money Fair in Berlin and will be available at the DS Automobiles stand at the Retromobile show in Paris from February 5th to 9th. Joaquin Jimenez will also be present at the DS stand on February 8th and 9th, from 2 pm to 3 pm, to meet with the public and sign coins. The coin will also be available online at the French Mint's website.
A Growing Collection
This commemorative coin is just the beginning. The DS French Mint collection will expand on June 3, 2025, with additional coins in various denominations, including two solid silver coins, a fine gold coin, and a special DS miniset with French circulation coins. "Our DS Automobiles brand is based on an exceptional legacy, that of the DS 19 born 70 years ago," states Xavier Peugeot, CEO of DS Automobiles. "In a rapidly changing automotive world, we continue to carry on the values of innovation, excellence and avant-garde that make up the DNA of this legendary car. The DS has become a must-have for car collectors, and they will undoubtedly appreciate our partnership with the French Mint, whose more-than 1,100 years of history make it the oldest institution in France. We are very proud of this collaboration in aid of our common history, and of the publication of this special coin.”
About DS Automobiles
Founded in Paris in 2014, DS Automobiles is a premium brand that embodies the French art of travel. With a rich heritage inspired by the 1955 DS, DS Automobiles offers a global range of vehicles that combine charismatic style, interior refinement, sophisticated technology, and first-class comfort. The brand is committed to electrification, offering electric and hybrid models, and is accelerating its transition to all-electric vehicles.
About the French Mint
The French Mint, established in 864, is the oldest French institution and one of the oldest businesses in the world. Located in the heart of Paris, the French Mint continues its mission of minting coins for the State and produces a variety of special wares, including medals, coins, decorations, and works of art. It is also a key cultural player, with a museum showcasing its heritage and workshops.