To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Latvian and Estonian states and the 100th anniversary of the re-establishment of the Lithuanian statehood, the central banks of the three Baltic States − Latvijas Banka, Lietuvos bankas and Eesti Pank − plan to issue a 2 euro commemorative coin with a common design in early 2018. This coin will remind the population of the Baltic States and elsewhere in the euro area of the determination of the Baltic nations to defend their independence. At the same time, the coin is a testimony of the unity of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia and their readiness to cooperate for the sake of their independence and freedom.
This is the first 2 euro commemorative coin whose design has been chosen jointly by the population of the three Baltic States. As is the case with other 2 euro commemorative coins, the coins of this issue will be valid for settlement across the euro area. The coins will have a common national side design selected via the public vote, while the name of the issuing country will represent the only difference.
The central banks of the three Baltic States invite everyone interested to vote by 5 April 2017 (inclusive) and participate in the coin draw. As many as 100 winners will be drawn, and each of them will receive three coins of Brilliant Uncirculated quality in a special souvenir packing – per coin from Latvian, Lithuanian and Estonian mintage. The names of the winners will be published on the website www.baltijasmoneta.eu (where the terms and conditions of the coin draw are also available). The winners will receive their prizes in early 2018 when the coins are issued.
The creation of the first common commemorative coin of the Baltic States in cooperation with the closest neighbours is one of the highlights of the programme Latvijas Banka plans to implement in the context of the 100th anniversary of our country.
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 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 the 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 circulation coins of a special design or commemorative coins as well as mint one more commemorative coin within a joint programme of several euro area countries provided that such a programme is organised.