2017-05-05 Fri

The Bank of Latvia issued a new 5 euro silver collector coin called Latgale Congress on 3rd May as a mark of appreciation for Latgale who contributed greatly for Latvia's unity and statehood. The Latgale Congress of Latvians took place on 9–10 May 1917 where delegates from Latgale municipality and town governments, parishes and societies as well as Latvian riflemen participated.

Latvians of Latgale were separated from Vidzeme and Kurzeme for almost 300 years (1629-1917), first by the Poles, and then by Russia. In 1917, the Latgalians made a choice to unite with their fellow Latvians in Kurzeme and Vidzeme, and the Latvian State took shape.

The obverse of the coin features important people from Congress like Catholic priests, riflemen, teachers and public figures. The inscription is the red-white-red slogan of Congress in the Latgalian language. The reverse depicts a crucifix, with women and children in the background, getting ready for May Singing which is a folk tradition characteristic for Latgale.

The collector coin is struck by Faude & Huguenin SA (Switzerland) with a mintage limit of 3,000 and each coin costs 50 euro. Though it is a legal tender in the Republic of Latvia, it might not enter circulation, as it might create interest among the numismatic communities.