2017-09-21 Thu

Latvia issued the second coin in the annual series that celebrates 100 years of the nation in 2018. The Proof .9999 fine gold €20 coin was released by the Austrian Mint on 31st August.

The obverse depicts the denomination, year of issue, nation’s name and other inscriptions. Many inscriptions come with a hashtag to showcase modernity. A 12th-century horseshoe fibula with star-shaped ends is depicted on the reverse.

Brooches from 1st to fourth centuries A.D include the eye fibulae, tutulus fibulae, cross-ribbed fibulae, arbalest fibulae and round disc fibulae with openwork wheel, cross and fire cross motifs. Brooches were first imported in this part of the world. Local craftsmen started producing their own brooches by using the old ones as models. The new ones portrayed local aesthetic concepts and beliefs. Brooches were used for clothing by men, women, and children. Their designs also had a protective function. They might have taken different forms over the years but they are popular even today.

The horseshoe fibula has been used by both men and women for more than 1,000 years. From 9th to 12th centuries, they were cast in bronze, iron, and silver. By the end of the 17th century, the ring fibulae became more popular.

The 6 grams coin has a mintage limit of 4,000 pieces and can be purchased for €270. The 2016 coin featured the disc fibula coin while the last 2018 coin will feature the bubble fibula.