Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly’s Wedding: Monaco Celebrates the 70th Anniversary of the “Wedding of the Century” Through Stamps and Coins

To mark the 70th anniversary of the wedding between Prince Rainier III of Monaco and American actress Grace Kelly, the Museum of Stamps and Coins of Monaco is hosting a special exhibition celebrating one of the most iconic events in the history of the Principality. From 13 July to 15 October 2026, visitors will discover the exhibition “Wedding of the Century in Philately and Numismatics”, a journey through the worldwide impact of the royal wedding told through the history of stamps and coins.

The marriage of Rainier III and Grace Kelly through the eyes of philately

Celebrated in 1956, the wedding of Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly became a historic event that captured global attention. The union between the Monegasque sovereign and the famous Hollywood actress was followed by millions of people around the world and played a major role in strengthening Monaco’s international reputation.

The wedding inspired a remarkable production of commemorative items that have now become valuable historical testimonies: stamps, coins, medals, special envelopes and official documents that reveal not only the story of a royal marriage, but also the image of Monaco on the international stage during the mid-20th century.

A Monaco exhibition dedicated to the symbols of the “Wedding of the Century”

The exhibition brings together an exceptional selection of philatelic and numismatic treasures, offering visitors a unique journey through history thanks to rare and meaningful collectible items.

The display includes:

• commemorative medals celebrating the princely wedding;
• official commemorative stamps;
• First Day Covers;
• souvenir postcards and cards;
• historical philatelic documents;
• other heritage objects linked to the 1956 celebrations.

Each piece tells the story of how the marriage of Rainier III and Grace Kelly was celebrated, shared worldwide and preserved in collective memory.

Philately and numismatics as witnesses of history

The exhibition highlights the importance of philately and numismatics as tools for preserving historical memory. Stamps and coins are not merely collectors’ items; they are authentic documents capable of recording major events, personalities and social changes.

Through these objects, visitors can rediscover Monaco’s cultural heritage and understand how a private moment of the Princely Family became a worldwide symbol.

A continuation of Monaco’s heritage preservation programme

The exhibition follows the museum’s ongoing work to showcase Monaco’s philatelic heritage and extends the section dedicated to the Belle Époque of philately, presented at the Prince’s Palace of Monaco.

The event confirms the role of the Museum of Stamps and Coins as a place dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the Principality, where stamps, coins and documents become valuable tools for understanding the events that shaped Monaco’s identity.

Exhibition information

Title: “Wedding of the Century in Philately and Numismatics”
Location: Museum of Stamps and Coins of Monaco
Dates: 13 July – 15 October 2026

A must-see exhibition for history enthusiasts, collectors and anyone wishing to rediscover the timeless fascination of the marriage between Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly, one of the most celebrated events of the 20th century.