5 euro Germany 2023 – Insects: Red Mason Bee

The fourth coin in the “Wonderful World of Insects” €5 colored coin series is dedicated to the Red Mason Bee, Germany’s 2019 Insect of the Year.

The red mason bee, resembling a small bumblebee, is considered the harbinger of spring. It is one of 700 species of wild bees found in Central Europe and plays an important role in functioning ecosystems, particularly as pollinators of wild and cultivated plants.

Only one generation develops per year. In the spring, pollen-filled nest boxes are created, in which the larvae develop into adults by August. In this state, they remain in the closed nest until the following spring, and then chew their way out with their powerful jaws. The male offspring hatch first. Once the females hatch, the males wait to mate and the cycle begins again.

Denomination: 5 euro
Weight: 9.68g
Diameter: 27.25mm
Metal: copper-nickel alloy
Circulation: 100.000