Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 5 Lekë 1988, KM# 61, Albania, 42nd Anniversary of the First Albanian Railroad
  • 5 Lekë 1988, KM# 61, Albania, 42nd Anniversary of the First Albanian Railroad
Description

The first Albanian railroad was built in 1946, marking the beginning of the country’s railway network. The Durrës–Peqin line, spanning 37 kilometers, was constructed as part of Albania’s post-war reconstruction efforts under Enver Hoxha’s regime. Built primarily through volunteer labor, the project aimed to modernize transportation and boost economic development. Officially inaugurated in 1947, this railway laid the foundation for future expansions, eventually connecting major cities like Tirana, Shkodër, and Vlorë. While Albania’s railway system flourished during the communist era, it has since declined due to lack of investment and increased reliance on road transport.

Obverse

Depicts a modern train emerging from a railroad tunnel, with the Emblem of the People's Republic of Albania positioned above. The design is enclosed within a circular border, featuring the country's name in Albanian, while the year of the Albanian Railroad's establishment and the year of coin issue are inscribed below.

REPUBLIKA POPULLORE SOCIALISTE E SHQIPERISE
·1946 - 1988·

Reverse

Depicts a steam train entering a railroad tunnel, with black locomotive smoke billowing against the ceiling. The date of issue is inscribed below within a circular border, with the country's name in Italian above and the denomination positioned at the bottom.

ALBANIA
1988
5 LEKË

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Cupronickel
Weight 28.2 g
Diameter 38.7 mm
Thickness 3.25 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Central Bank of Hungary (MNB)

Related coins

People's Socialist Republic, 500th Anniversary of Skanderbeg's Death - League of Lezhë

Silver, 16.66 g, ⌀ 30 mm
People's Socialist Republic, Durrës Castle

Cupronickel, 28.2 g, ⌀ 38.7 mm
4th Republic

Nickel Plated Steel, 3.12 g, ⌀ 20 mm