Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 10 Euro 2006, KM# 132, Finland, Republic, 100th Anniversary of the Introduction of Universal and Equal Suffrage
  • 10 Euro 2006, KM# 132, Finland, Republic, 100th Anniversary of the Introduction of Universal and Equal Suffrage
Description

In 1906, universal suffrage was adopted in the Grand Duchy of Finland. However, the relationship between the Grand Duchy and the Russian Empire soured when the Russian government made moves to restrict Finnish autonomy. For example, universal suffrage was, in practice, virtually meaningless, since the tsar did not have to approve any of the laws adopted by the Finnish parliament. The desire for independence gained ground, first among radical liberals and socialists.

The concept of universal suffrage, also known as general suffrage or common suffrage, consists of the right to vote for all except a small number of adult citizens (or subjects). As minors are generally excluded, the concept is frequently described as universal adult suffrage. Many countries make an exception for small numbers of adults that are considered mentally incapable of voting. Other countries also exclude people convicted of serious crimes or people in jail, but this is considered a violation of a basic human right in an increasing number of countries. In some countries, including the United States, it is very difficult and expensive for convicted criminals to regain this right even after having served their jail sentence. In any case, where universal suffrage exists, the right to vote is not restricted by race, sex, belief, wealth, or social status.

Designer: Pertti Kalervo Mäkinen

Obverse

Depicts a double line of the ballot box gap. Two large ballot papers and hands in silhouette picture the voting process. The inscription in Finnish "100 years of the parliamentary reform" below, the issue date and the engraver's initial (M) above.

According to the designer, the large bright mirror surfaces left on the subject have their own function - a proof-quality commemorative coin reflects the viewer's own image. It reminds us that everyone has to act if they want their voice to be heard.

2006 M
100 v
EDUSKUNTAUUDISTUS

Reverse

Depicts two stylised faces, one male and the other female (both faces to an equal distance from the centre), separated by a thin curved line. The initial of the Mint of Finland’s President and CEO Raimo Makkonen (M) and value on the right, country name in Finnish and Swedish on the left.

M 10 EURO
SUOMI FINLAND

Edge

Landtag reform 1906

LANTDAGSREFORMEN 1906

Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.925
Weight 25.5 g
Diameter 38.6 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Mint of Finland

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