2006 Latvia 1Ls Silver Proof Coin "Valdemars"

• Mint: Royal Dutch Mint
• Denomination: 1 Lats
• Quality: Proof
• Issue limit: 5,000 pcs.
• Alloy: 92.5% Sterling silver
• Diameter: 38.61 mm
• Weight: 31.47 grams
• Artist: Arta Ozola-Jaunaraja
• Box/Capsule: Yes/Yes
• Certificate: Yes

The third series in the numismatic program "Latvia. Times and Values" is called "People", and is dedicated to the spiritual molders of the Latvian nation.

The reverse of the coin bears the inscription "Latvji, brauciet jurina!" (Latvians, venture to distant seas!), words spoken by Krisjanis Valdemars (1825-1891) heralding the Latvian cultural and economic awakening. The sea is an often employed symbol in dainas - Latvian folk songs that have played a prominent role in shaping Latvia's national identity. The pragmatism of Valdemars was an essential contribution to the New Latvians (Jaunlatviesi) movement. He inspired Latvians to engage in business because he saw national emancipation as stemming from national wealth. He devoted particular attention to seafaring and succeeded in winning a legal basis for establishing a democratic network of naval colleges thus enabling the Latvian peasants to become seamen. By the end of the 19th century, about 3,000 captains, helmsmen and ship engineers had graduated from the Latvian naval colleges. They founded Latvian associations of ship owners and even took to building seagoing ships.

The obverse features the waves of the sea that “are sifting gold and silver” as a symbol of prosperity.

Additional Information

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