Obverse. Photo © Numisbalt
  • 10 Lekë 1991, KM# 69, Albania, Barcelona 1992 Summer Olympics
  • 10 Lekë 1991, KM# 69, Albania, Barcelona 1992 Summer Olympics
Description

The 1992 Summer Olympic Games were held in Barcelona, Spain, from July 25 to August 9, marking a significant and symbolic event in Olympic history. These Games were notable for being the first after the end of the Cold War, with many newly independent nations participating for the first time, including former Soviet republics under the banner of the Unified Team, and the return of South Africa after decades of apartheid-related exclusion. A total of 169 nations competed, with over 9,300 athletes. Barcelona 1992 is also remembered for its vibrant cultural presentation, impressive urban transformation, and iconic moments like the performance of the U.S. "Dream Team" in basketball. The Games are widely credited with rejuvenating the city of Barcelona, both economically and culturally.

Obverse

Depicts the Emblem of the People's Republic of Albania, the country name in Albanian above, and the date below.

The Emblem of the People's Republic of Albania featured a black double-headed eagle, a symbol rooted in Byzantine and medieval Albanian heraldry, most famously used by Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg during his 15th-century resistance against the Ottoman Empire. The eagle was surrounded by golden wheat ears, representing agriculture and unity, and topped with a red five-pointed star, the universal symbol of communism. A red ribbon at the bottom bore the date "24 Maj 1944", commemorating the Congress of Përmet, where Albanian communist leaders established a provisional government modeled after Yugoslavia’s anti-fascist council.

Shqipëri is the native Albanian name for Albania, used by Albanians to refer to their country. The term is derived from "shqipe" or "shqiponjë," meaning "eagle", symbolizing the legendary connection between Albanians and the double-headed eagle. The name Shqipëri roughly translates to "Land of the Eagles," reflecting national pride and independence.

REPUBLIKA POPULLORE SOCIALISTE E SHQIPERISE
24. MAI 1944
10 LEKË
1991

Reverse

Depicts a horse and rider jumping over left, surrounded by the inscription in Albanian "GAMES OF THE XXV OLYMPIAD BARCELONA" alongside the rim with date.

The equestrian events at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics were held at the Real Club de Polo de Barcelona, a prestigious venue adapted for Olympic competition. The events included the traditional three disciplines: dressage, eventing, and show jumping, each with individual and team competitions.

Notably, Germany dominated the equestrian events, especially in dressage, where they swept both individual and team golds. Eventing was held partly in Club Hípic El Montanyà, with cross-country taking place in a rural mountain area outside Barcelona, offering a challenging and scenic course. The equestrian events were praised for their organization and for showcasing the beauty and skill of the sport in a setting that blended urban sophistication with natural landscapes.

ALBANIA - LOJRAT XXV OLIMPIKE TE BARCELONES 1992

Edge

10 Lekë

People's Socialist Republic
KM# 69
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.925
Weight 52.5 g
Diameter 39 mm
Thickness 2.5 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Central Bank of Hungary (MNB)

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