Page "Economy of San Marino" Paragraph 1

The per capita level of output and standard of living are comparable to those of Italy, which supplies much of its food.

In addition, San Marino maintains the lowest unemployment rate in Europe, a state budget surplus, and no national debt.

Income taxes are much lower than in Italy, and there are therefore extremely strict requirements to obtain citizenship.

San Marino's per capita gross national product in 2000 stood at $ 32, 000 with more than 50 % of that coming from the tourism industry which draws about 3. 15 million people annually.

One of the greatest sources of income from tourism comes from the sale of historic coins and stamps.

In 1894, San Marino issued the first commemorative stamps and since then that has been part of a large livelihood in the republic.

All 10 of the Post Offices of San Marino sell these stamps and collectible coins, including " Legal Gold Tender Coins ".