| Description : The Atomium was designed as a symbol of the atomic age and the
peaceful use of nuclear energy by engineer André Waterkeyn and elaborated by architects André and Jean Polak
and built for the EXPO '58 World Exposition in Brussels. It is a 102 m high representation of the cubic
crystal structure of iron. The atoms are designed as hollow spheres and the lattice that unites them to form the imaginary
elementary cell consists of tubes. Three of the spherical shells are additionally supported from the floor. Originally
intended only for the duration of the World's Fair, the Atomium became a landmark of Brussels and was therefore preserved.
The occasion of the issue is the reopening after several years of renovation. Six of the nine hollow spheres are open to
the public and are used for exhibitions, film screenings, concerts and congresses; there is a restaurant at the top. The
helmeted head of the Archangel Michael the mint mark of the Royal Belgian mint Monnaie Royale de Belgique /
Koninklijke Munt van België / Königliche Belgische Münzprägeanstalt in Brussels is to the left of
the base of the Atomium, to the right of it a scale the logo of the mint master Romain Coenen. On the right are the
initials "LL" of the designer Luc Luycx. The national emblem "B" (for Belgium) is placed at the top of the ring, the
year "2006" at the bottom, and six stars of Europe are placed in two groups in between. |
