New Lats (1993-2013) Coins
The New Lats era in Latvia, which lasted from 1993 to 2013, marked a significant period in the Baltic country's monetary history. After regaining its independence from the Soviet Union, Latvia reintroduced its national currency, the lats, as a symbol of economic and cultural sovereignty.
Introduction and characteristics of the New Lats
The Bank of Latvia issued the New Lats on March 5, 1993, replacing the Latvian ruble that had been used temporarily after independence. New Lats coins were minted in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 10, 20 and 50 santīmi, as well as 1 and 2 lats. These pieces featured designs reflecting Latvian national identity, including the country's coat of arms, traditional floral motifs and important historical figures. The 1 lats coin, in particular, became a symbol of national pride, with its design of a Latvian maiden in traditional costume.
Evolution and legacy of the New Lats
During its two decades of circulation, the New Lats underwent several upgrades in design and security. The Bank of Latvia issued commemorative collector coins celebrating historical events, personalities and cultural achievements of the country. These special pieces, often minted in precious metals, became coveted by both domestic and international collectors. Despite their short life, the New Lats played a crucial role in Latvia's economic transition to the European Union. On January 1, 2014, Latvia adopted the euro, marking the end of the New Lats era. However, these coins continue to be valued for their historical and numismatic significance, representing a period of national and economic renaissance for Latvia.
The most valuable and popular coins
The most valuable New Lats (1993-2013) coins and sought after by collectors according to Foronum statistics are the following:
The valuation of these coins has been achieved through a meticulous algorithm that considers the current market, taking into account aspects such as material, weight, diameter, edge, year of mintage, mint of manufacture and the number of coins produced. Coins with limited mintages and in good condition are usually among the most valuable.
Ancient coins of Latvia
To facilitate their classification, we have decided to organise the coins according to their historical period, you can consult the coins by historical numismatic categories of Latvia.
Old Lats 1922-1940 New Lats 1993-2013 Euro 2014-?Coin Catalog
1 lats
50 santimu
2 lati
1 santims
5 santimi
10 santimu
2 lati (75th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence)
2 santimi
20 santimu
20 santimu
2 lati
1 lats (Millennium)
1 lats
1 lats
1 lats
1 lats (Snowman)
1 lats
1 lats (Song Festival)
1 lats (Limbazi)
1 lats (Beer mug)
1 lats (European hedgehog)
1 lats (Christmas Bells)
1 lats (Kokle)
Other resources to find coins and banknotes of Latvia
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