To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Baltic States, the central banks of the Baltic States − Eesti Pank, Latvijas Banka and Lietuvos bankas − plan to issue a 2 euro commemorative coin with a common design on the national side, in the beginning of 2018. When received as a means of payment, this 2 euro coin has to remind the citizens of the Baltic States and elsewhere in the euro area of the determination of the Baltic nations to defend their statehood, acquired 100 years ago or re-established again. At the same time the coin has to be a testimony of the unity of the Estonian, Latvian and Lithuanian nations and their readiness to cooperate for the sake of their independence and freedom.
Together with the Lithuanian and Estonian colleagues, Latvijas Banka has already started the preparations for selecting the design as all three countries will present their ideas for the design of this 2 euro commemorative coin. Latvia intends to invite artists to compete for the best concept. Overall six concepts, two from each country, will be presented for popular vote this spring. The vote will be held on a dedicated website to be announced later.
The creation of the first common commemorative coin of the Baltic States in cooperation with our closest neighbours is one of the top highlights in the overall programme of events to be implemented by Latvijas Banka in the context of the centenary of our state.
Latvijas Banka is actively involved in the programme for Latvia's centenary celebration. The programme is based on the concept of involving the general public, each individual and institution in the process of creating the celebration and the associated long-lasting values. Preparations for Latvia's centenary will commence with the tasks and events planned already for 2017, but the festivities and activities celebrating Latvia will continue for five years. Latvijas Banka will contribute to Latvia's centenary programme by ensuring research on significant developments in the financial history of Latvia and assessment of the contribution of outstanding personalities. Also, a number of commemorative and collector coin series and several coins dedicated to the foundation of an independent state will be created. Latvijas Banka will conclude Latvia's centenary celebration by marking the 100th anniversary of the national central bank on 1 November 2022.
Latvijas Banka continues the tradition of minting circulation coins of special design in Latvia. Each year, every euro area country is entitled to issue two 2 euro commemorative coins as well as one more commemorative coin within a joint programme of several euro area countries provided that such a programme is organised.