Other events in Baltic States

The Bank of Latvia has released a one-lat anniversary coin "Riga Money - 800", as the Bank's public relations manager Kristaps Otersons told Nozare.lv/LETA reported..

Its graphic design was created by Inta Sarkane, whereas the plaster model - by Janis Strupulis.

Otersons said that, celebrating the 800th anniversary of Riga's money, one coin has been forged into another - Bishop Albert's pfenning into a silver lat.

Riga verified its independence in 1211 when Bishop Albert allowed the merchants of Gothland to forge coins for the Archbishopric of Riga.

The celebration to mark the emission of the coin will take place on Tuesday, August 16, at 15:00 p.m. in the House of Blackheads, unveiling the Riga's 810th anniversary events.

Riga Mayor Nils Usakovs (Harmony Center), Bank of Latvia art consultant Laimonis Senbergs and art historian Ojars Sparitis will also participate in the celebration.

During the celebration, the original of the first coin, from holdings of the National History Museum of Latvia, as well as its anniversary dedication, will be displayed in the House of Blackheads.

Overall, the Bank of Latvia has issued about 20 gold and silver coins that depict Riga at various periods in history and expressions. Everyone will be able to observe all of the coins during the week of Riga Festival.

The coin "Riga Money - 800" is legal tender in the Republic of Latvia. The maximum number of issued coins is limited to 5,000. The coin can be purchased at the Bank of Latvia, as well as other banks, souvenir and jewelry shops. The coin costs 22.5 lats.

The Bank of Latvia has issued 84 collector and commemorative coins since the Latvian lat was reintroduced, and more than ten of them have been awarded prizes in the most prestigious international coin design competitions.