Catalog
| Issuer | Latvia |
|---|---|
| Year | 1992-2009 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 50 Santimu (0.50 LVL) |
| Currency | New lats (1993-2013) |
| Composition | Copper-nickel |
| Weight | 3.5 g |
| Diameter | 18.8 mm |
| Thickness | 1.7 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Jānis Strupulis |
| In circulation to | 14 January 2014 |
| Reference(s) | KM#13, Schön#17 |
| Obverse description | The small coat of arms of the Republic of Latvia, encircled by the inscription LATVIJAS REPUBLIKA 2007 |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
LATVIJAS REPUBLIKA · 2009 · (Translation: REPUBLIC OF LATVIA · 2009·) |
| Reverse description | A pine tree seedling, the symbol of bountiful Latvian timber resources, is depicted in the upper part of the coin. A horizontal line separates it from the numeral 50, under which the inscription SANTIMU is placed in a semicircle. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | 50 SANTĪMU |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint |
Munich, Germany (1158-date) Staatliche Münze Baden-Württemberg,Stuttgart, Germany (1374-date) |
| Mintage |
1992 - Struck by `Bayerisches Hauptmünzamt` (Germany) - 15 000 000 2007 - Struck by `Staatliche Münzen Baden-Württemberg` (Germany) - 4 000 000 2009 - Struck by `Staatliche Münzen Baden-Württemberg` (Germany) - 5 000 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 3032547610 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued from 1992 to 2009, the Latvian 50 Santimu coin represents a pivotal era following Latvia's regained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Its introduction marked the re-establishment of the national currency, the Lats, replacing the temporary Latvian Rublis. This period under successive presidents symbolized a return to national sovereignty and economic self-determination, crucial steps in rebuilding the nation's identity after decades of occupation and integrating into the European economic landscape.
Artistry: The coin's design, attributed to Gunārs Lūsis, embodies a modern nationalistic style. The obverse prominently features the Greater Coat of Arms of Latvia, a powerful symbol of statehood, meticulously rendered with the sun, three stars, lion, and griffin. The reverse displays the denomination "50 SANTIMU" and the year, presented in a clear, functional typeface, reflecting a post-Soviet aesthetic focused on national symbols rather than elaborate ornamentation. The overall design conveys strength and clarity, characteristic of newly independent nations asserting their heritage.
Technical/Grading: Struck in copper-nickel, this 18.8 mm, 3.5-gram coin typically exhibits a good, sharp strike. Key high-points for grading include the details of the crown and the facial features of the lion and griffin on the obverse's Coat of Arms, as well as the raised edges of the numerals on the reverse. Due to its small size and extensive circulation, examples in higher grades (AU and above) often show strong luster and minimal bag marks, while circulated pieces commonly display wear on the central devices and field areas.