Catalog
| Issuer | Lithuania |
|---|---|
| Year | 2004 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 50 Litų (50 LTL) |
| Currency | New litas (1993-2014) |
| Composition | Silver (.925) |
| Weight | 28.28 g |
| Diameter | 38.61 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Rytas Jonas Belevičius |
| In circulation to | 1 January 2015 |
| Reference(s) | KM#138 |
| Obverse description | The obverse of the coin depicts the Coat of Arms of the Republic of Lithuania, arranged in a circle around a floral ornament. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
LIETUVA 50 LITŲ LMK (Translation: Lithuania 50 litas LMK) |
| Reverse description | The reverse of the coin displays an image of Vilnius University, encircled with the inscription VILNIAUS UNIVERSITETAS 425 (Vilnius University 425). The right side contains the years 1579 and 2004, which appear when the coin is tilted at a certain angle. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
VILNIAUS UNIVERSITETAS 425 (Translation: Vilnius University 425) |
| Edge | Lettered |
| Mint |
(LMK) Lithuanian Mint (Lietuvos Monetu Kalykla), Vilnius, Lithuania (1990-date) |
| Mintage |
2004 LMK - Proof - 2 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 1015003150 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued in 2004, this 50 Litų silver coin commemorates the 425th anniversary of Vilnius University, a cornerstone of Lithuanian history. Founded in 1579 by King Stephen Báthory of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania as a Jesuit academy, its establishment was a pivotal cultural and educational milestone. The university fostered intellectual growth and preserved Lithuanian identity for centuries, making this anniversary a significant celebration of both enduring academic legacy and national heritage in post-independence Lithuania.
Artistry: The coin's design, by Antanas Žukauskas (obverse) and Rytas Jonas Belevičius (reverse), showcases meticulous craftsmanship. The obverse features a finely detailed Vytis, Lithuania's national coat of arms, reflecting modern academic realism. The reverse masterfully depicts the Grand Courtyard of Vilnius University, highlighting the iconic bell tower and St. John's Church. Architectural elements are rendered with precision, conveying the university's grandeur and historical depth, typical of commemorative issues blending accuracy with artistic interpretation.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .925 silver, weighing 28.28 grams with a 38.61 mm diameter, this coin exhibits excellent technical qualities. Key high-points for grading include the Vytis's rider's helmet and sword on the obverse, and the fine architectural lines of the university buildings and bell tower spire on the reverse. Collectors should seek examples with a full, sharp strike, strong luster, and minimal contact marks on expansive fields to achieve top grades, reflecting its high production standards.