(ANSA) - Rome, March 3 - A series of euro coins featuring the image of Pope Francis, many packaged in collector sets, were released for sale Monday by the Vatican. A variety sets were offered, including an eight-piece set containing coins ranging from one cent up to two-euro; and a set worth 1,090 euro and including a 50-euro coin. The ultimate set sells for 2,990 euros and contains a gold coin weighing 40 grams and worth a nominal value of 200 euros, the Vatican said. This year's series is particularly unusual in that it is the first featuring images of Francis, since last year's offerings still featured former pope Benedict, who retired in February 2013. The Vatican was also offering special bronze and silver medallions to commemorate the upcoming canonization of former popes John XXIII and John Paul II. http://popefrancisnewsapp.com/