Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 2 Krooni 1932, KM# 13, Estonia, 300th Anniversary of University of Tartu
  • 2 Krooni 1932, KM# 13, Estonia, 300th Anniversary of University of Tartu
Description

The University of Tartu, located in the city of Tartu, stands as Estonia's sole classical university, renowned as the largest and most esteemed institution of higher learning in the country. Founded in 1632 by King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden, it holds a distinguished position in the academic landscape.

Preceding its establishment, the Academia Gustaviana emerged as the second university within the Swedish Empire, succeeding Uppsala University in Sweden and preceding Åbo Akademi University in Finland. The origins of this institution trace back to the Jesuit grammar school Gymnasium Dorpatense, established by Stefan Batory, then ruler of Poland–Lithuania, in 1583. This grammar school operated until 1601, during the period when Tartu (then Dorpat) was under Polish–Lithuanian authority.

On December 1, 1919, the university commenced operations as Tartu University of the Republic of Estonia, adopting Estonian as the medium of instruction. It introduced new academic disciplines that formed the foundation for the advancement and exploration of Estonian culture on a national scale.

Obverse

Depicts the coat of arms of Estonia (1925–1940), the country name (Republic of Estonia) above, the date below.

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.

Engraver: Georg Vestenberg

EESTI VABARIIK
1932

Reverse

Depicts the main building of the University of Tartu, the inscription "University of Tartu" and dates above, and the denomination below.

The primary edifice of the University of Tartu, known as the Main Building (Tartu Ülikooli peahoone in Estonian), stands as a prominent symbol of the institution. Renowned for its classical architectural style, it is regarded as one of the most significant examples of such architecture in Estonia.

Constructed between 1804 and 1809, this distinguished structure was envisioned by the architect Johann Wilhelm Krause. Noteworthy features include a spacious auditorium and lock-up rooms located in the attic, which were historically utilized during the 19th century as disciplinary measures for students.

Engraver: Günther Reindorff

· UNIVERSITAS TARTUENSIS ·
1632-1932
2 KROONI

Edge

2 Krooni

1st Republic

300th Anniversary of University of Tartu

KM# 13 Schön# 20
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.500
Weight 12 g
Diameter 29.75 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Estonian State Printing Office

Related coins

1st Republic

Silver, 12 g, ⌀ 30 mm