Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 5 Krooni 1993, KM# 29, Estonia, 75th Anniversary of Independence
  • 5 Krooni 1993, KM# 29, Estonia, 75th Anniversary of Independence
Description

In November 1917, following the collapse of the Russian Empire, the Estonian Provincial Assembly, known as the diet of the Autonomous Governorate of Estonia, declared itself the supreme authority in Estonia. This assembly, elected earlier in the year, assumed control amid the shifting political landscape.

Subsequently, in February 1918, the Salvation Committee of the Estonian National Council Maapäev convened in Tallinn and issued the Estonian Declaration of Independence. The committee also established the Estonian Provisional Government. However, this initial period of independence was abruptly cut short when German forces entered Tallinn the very next day.

The country fell under German occupation, and the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk was signed, relinquishing Russian claims to Estonia. German presence persisted until November 1918, when the conclusion of the war in the western front prompted their withdrawal to Germany. This departure created a void, allowing Bolshevik forces to enter Estonia, instigating the Estonian War of Independence, which endured for 14 months.

Obverse

Depicts three passant-gardant lions from the coat of arms of Estonia, within a shield 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.

Mint mark M (is any) stands for Rein Mikli, head of RE Juveel, Tallinn, Estonia. Mark is located between the head and paw of the lowest lion.

Engravers: Arseni Mölder, Ants Raud

19 93

Reverse

Depicts a sculpture “Roe Deer” by J. Koort surrounded by the inscription "Republic of Estonia 75" and value.

Enravers: Ants Raud, Ene Valter

EESTI VABARIIK 75
5 KROONI

Edge

5 Krooni

75th Anniversary of Independence

KM# 29 Schön# 30
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Circulating)
Material Nordic Gold
Weight 7.1 g
Diameter 26.2 mm
Thickness 2.06 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Alt # Schön# 30.1, Schön# 30.2
Mint
RE Juveel, Tallinn, Estonia

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Nordic Gold, 7.1 g, ⌀ 26.1 mm