The word "Probe" designates this as a test or pattern strike — produced for technical evaluation of the bimetallic format ahead of or during early Euro production runs, not for public circulation. Genuine Euro Probe pieces from this period exist in vanishingly small quantities, most retained by mints or monetary authorities for archival purposes. Specimens that reach the market almost always do so through former mint employees or institutional deaccessions.
The word "Probe" designates this as a test or pattern strike — produced for technical evaluation of the bimetallic format ahead of or during early Euro production runs, not for public circulation. Genuine Euro Probe pieces from this period exist in vanishingly small quantities, most retained by mints or monetary authorities for archival purposes. Specimens that reach the market almost always do so through former mint employees or institutional deaccessions.