Obverse. Photo © Monetnik.ru
  • 1 Lats 2008, KM# 107, Latvia, Limited Edition 1 Lats, Chimney-sweep
  • 1 Lats 2008, KM# 107, Latvia, Limited Edition 1 Lats, Chimney-sweep
Obverse

The large coat of arms of the Republic of Latvia with the year 2008 inscribed below it is in the center. The inscriptions LATVIJAS and REPUBLIKA, each arranged in a semicircle, are above and beneath the central motif, respectively.

The Latvian national coat of arms was designed by the Latvian artist Rihards Zariņš. It combines symbols of Latvian national statehood, as well as symbols of its ancient historical districts:

- The three golden stars above the field represent three historical provinces: Vidzeme (Swedish Livonia), Latgale (Polish Livonia) and Kurzeme-Zemgale (Duchy of Courland and Semigalia).
- The golden sun in the field represents the sun of freedom. Sun symbol was used as a symbol of distinction and national identity by the Imperial Russian Army's Latvian Riflemen units during World War I. During the war, the sun was fashioned with 17 rays that symbolized the 17 Latvian inhabited districts.
- The bottom part of escutcheon is divided into two fieds where the red lion of Courland represents Kurzeme and Zemgale while the silver griffin of Polish Livionia represents Vidzeme and Latgale. The red lion and silver griffin are also used as Supporters.
- Base of the coat of arms is decorated with the branches of an oak tree, Quercus robur, which is one of Latvian national symbols.

LATVIJAS
20 08
REPUBLIKA

Reverse

A chimney-sweep is featured in the centre. The inscription LATS, arranged at the top in a semicircle, and the numeral 1, placed in the lower part of the coin, are both depicted on the left.

Chimney sweeps are still held in the highest regard in Latvia and if you see one in his traditional 19th-century uniform on the streets it’s considered good luck to rub his brass buttons.

Engraver: Daina Lapina

LATS
1

Edge

Two inscriptions LATVIJAS BANKA (Bank of Latvia), separated by rhombic dots

LATVIJAS BANKA ♦ LATVIJAS BANKA ♦

1 Lats

KM# 107 Schön# 100
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Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Circulating)
Material Cupronickel
Weight 4.8 g
Diameter 21.75 mm
Thickness 1.8 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Mint of Finland

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