Numismatics Catalog
National Entrepreneur 5 Euro Coin
This Latvian 5 euro coin dedicated to National Entrepreneurship represents a bold departure from traditional circular coin design. Shaped as a multi-faceted geometric form, the coin visually references a cut gemstone, symbolizing value creation, innovation, and economic potential. One side incorporates a QR code, directly linking physical numismatics with the digital world and modern business ecosystems. The combination of unconventional shape, industrial surface textures, and digital integration positions this coin as a clear example of design experimentation, reflecting Latvia’s focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and forward-thinking economic identity.
read article Experimental Form, Materials & Design InnovationHoneycomb-Shaped 5 Euro Coin
This Latvian 5 euro coin stands out for its unconventional honeycomb shape, directly inspired by the natural geometry of a beehive. The design abandons the traditional circular coin format in favor of a modular, hexagonal structure, creating a strong tactile and visual experience. One side features the inscription “LATVIJA 2018,” while the reverse integrates the denomination within the honeycomb cells. By merging nature-derived form with innovative minting techniques, the coin explores the boundaries between functional currency, sculptural object, and contemporary design, highlighting experimentation in materials, shape, and user interaction.
read article Experimental Form, Materials & Design InnovationHistoric City Plan (Riga)
This commemorative coin issued by Latvia features a detailed historic city plan of Riga, rendered in high-relief and presented in an irregular, map-fragment shape rather than a traditional circular format. The design resembles an archaeological or archival fragment, emphasizing the layered history of the city’s urban development. Streets, waterways, and blocks are precisely engraved, creating a tactile, almost topographical effect that invites close inspection. The unconventional outline reinforces the concept of memory, place, and historical continuity, making the coin both a numismatic object and a miniature sculptural map. It reflects Latvia’s innovative approach to contemporary coin design while honoring Riga’s cultural and architectural heritage.
read article Experimental Form, Materials & Design Innovation20 Euro Modern Geometric Design Silver Coin
This modern commemorative 20 Euro silver coin was issued by Monnaie de Paris in 2023 and features a minimalist geometric composition formed by intersecting linear patterns. The design emphasizes symmetry, depth, and precision, reflecting contemporary graphic and architectural influences in modern numismatics. The denomination “20 Euro” and year appear integrated into the composition, while the dark mirrored field and contrasting relief enhance the visual impact. The coin represents France’s ongoing exploration of abstract design and innovative surface treatment in modern commemorative coinage.
read article Experimental Form, Materials & Design Innovation2021 Lithuania Innovation Silver Coin
This innovative commemorative silver coin was issued by the Bank of Lithuania in 2021 to celebrate technological progress and modern design in numismatics. The coin features a modular, multi-part structure composed of concentric silver rings and a central gold-plated element, allowing the coin to be physically disassembled and reassembled. The design symbolizes innovation, scientific advancement, and Lithuania’s forward-looking approach to technology and creativity. Its unconventional construction makes it a distinctive example of contemporary experimental coinage.
read article Experimental Form, Materials & Design InnovationWorld War I Centenary Coin
This commemorative coin marks the centenary of the end of World War I, honoring remembrance, peace, and the human cost of global conflict. The reverse depicts a dove in flight carrying a red poppy, a powerful symbol of sacrifice and remembrance, set against layered inscriptions of the word “Peace” in multiple languages. The contrast between the calm, symbolic imagery and the historical reference to 1918 emphasizes reconciliation, collective memory, and the enduring hope for peace after devastation.
read article Social Values, Memory & HumanityWar of 1812 Bicentennial Coin
This commemorative coin marks the bicentennial of the War of 1812, presenting naval imagery that highlights the conflict’s defining maritime dimension. The sailing ship, rendered with strong depth and movement, symbolizes endurance, national defense, and the shared yet contested history between the United States and Canada. The bi-metallic composition visually reinforces the idea of dual perspectives and mutual remembrance, framing the war as a formative moment in shaping national identity on both sides.
read article Social Values, Memory & HumanityUnited States Liberty Gold Coin
This gold Liberty coin presents a powerful allegorical scene of a rearing horse ridden by a dynamic female figure, symbolizing freedom, strength, and forward momentum. The sculptural, almost cinematic composition emphasizes motion and raw energy, reinterpreting the classical idea of Liberty in a bold, contemporary form. The design reflects resilience and independence as living forces rather than static ideals, which contributed to its recognition as Coin of the Year.
read article Social Values, Memory & HumanityUkraine Minimalist Identity Coin
This minimalist commemorative coin reflects Ukraine’s resilience and determination in a time of profound national trial. The sharp vertical division of the surface symbolizes a fracture between light and darkness, vulnerability and strength, while the upward line and restrained geometry suggest dignity, endurance, and moral clarity. The reduced visual language emphasizes inner resolve and the idea of standing firm, conveying national identity not through narrative detail but through powerful, abstract symbolism.
read article Social Values, Memory & HumanityUkraine Strength in Unity Coin
This commemorative coin symbolizes unity and collective strength during a defining moment in Ukraine’s modern history. The design shows multiple hands forming a circle around the Ukrainian coat of arms, representing solidarity, mutual support, and shared responsibility among citizens. The blue and yellow ring echoes the national flag and reinforces identity and resilience, while the circular composition emphasizes cohesion, continuity, and the idea that strength emerges through unity in times of challenge.
read article Social Values, Memory & Humanity