Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 20 Senti 1992-1996, KM# 23, Estonia
  • 20 Senti 1992-1996, KM# 23, Estonia
Description

Engravers: Arseni Mölder, Ants Raud

Obverse

Depicts three passant-gardant lions from the coat of arms of Estonia, dividing the issue year.

The coat of arms of Estonia showcases a shield with three lions depicted in a passant-gardant position, flanked by oak branches. Each lion symbolizes different aspects of Estonian history, representing ancient freedom struggles, uprisings in Harjumaa in 1343, and the fight for independence between 1918 and 1920. The wreath of oak leaves surrounding the coat of arms signifies Estonia's enduring resilience and commitment to freedom.

Originating from the arms of Danish king Valdemar II in 1219, these lions were initially part of the greater coat of arms of Tallinn and the surrounding fiefdoms. Despite Denmark's sale of its Estonian dominion in 1346, the lions retained their prominence in Tallinn's coat of arms and later became central to various Estonian coats of arms, including those of the Duchy of Estonia and the Governorate of Estonia. Finally, upon Estonia's independence, the Riigikogu officially adopted the national coat of arms on June 19, 1925, cementing its role as a symbol of national identity.

19 96

Reverse

Depicts the denomination with the country name (Republic of Estonia) above.

• EESTI VABARIIK •
20
SENTI

Edge

20 Senti

KM# 23 Schön# 24
Characteristics
Material Aluminium Bronze
Weight 2.27 g
Diameter 18.95 mm
Thickness 1.07 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
RE Juveel, Tallinn, Estonia

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