Conclave: 8 Coins of the Popes, AD 32 to the 21st Century

For more than two thousand years, from the time of the Apostles, the Bishop of Rome has served as Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. There have been 266 papacies - some lasting only months, others decades. This collection features coins issued during the reigns of some of history’s most notable popes:

St. Peter (A.D. 32–67) – One of the original Apostles, Peter was named the “rock” on which the Church was built and is traditionally regarded as the first Pope. He was martyred in Rome by crucifixion. This bronze prutah was issued in Judaea under Roman authority.

St. Sylvester (A.D. 314–335) – Pope during the reign of Constantine the Great, he oversaw the era of the Council of Nicaea and the formation of the Nicene Creed. This bronze coin dates to Constantine I, whose image appears on it.

St. Gregory the Great (A.D. 590–604) – A major reformer of Church doctrine and organization, Gregory was known for his charity during famine and was canonized soon after death. This bronze coin was struck under Byzantine Emperor Maurice Tiberius.

Innocent III (A.D. 1198–1216) – One of the most powerful medieval popes, he shaped European politics and authorized major Crusade-era events, including the Fourth Crusade. This Byzantine “cup” coin features an image of Christ.

Blessed Pius IX (A.D. 1846–1878) – The longest-reigning pope after St. Peter, he witnessed the fall of the Papal States and opposed modern political change. This 5 centesimi coin circulated in newly unified Italy during his papacy.

Pius XII (A.D. 1939–1958) – Pope during World War II, he had previously served as Vatican diplomat and Cardinal Secretary of State. This Vatican lira coin was issued during his reign.

St. John Paul II (1978–2005) – The first non-Italian pope in over 450 years, he played a major role in inspiring the fall of Communism in Eastern Europe. This Vatican 200 lira coin was issued in 2001.

Note: For ancient and medieval coins, reverses and sizes may vary.