2020 €5 Modernism in Latvia – The Sixties Silver Proof Coin

Embrace the Spirit of the Sixties

Step back into the transformative era of the 1960s with the 2020 €5 Modernism in Latvia – The Sixties Silver Proof Coin. This exquisite piece is more than just a coin; it’s a testament to a time when cultural and artistic boundaries were being redrawn, even behind the Iron Curtain. Crafted with meticulous detail, it captures the essence of Latvian modernism through iconic designs from the era.

Distinctive Obverse Design

The obverse of the coin features fragments of Ulda Razum’s 1968 stationery set design and Gunārs Kirke’s 1968 “Jazz Festival 68” record cover. The horse motif and the graphic elements are brought to life with varying intensities of matting and intricate gilding. The vertical inscription of “LATVIA” and the year “2020” add a sophisticated touch to this side of the coin.

Historical Reverse Imagery

On the reverse, you’ll find elements from Zina Ulste’s decor for the “Saulīte” coffee set and Marta Zigrīda Stania’s residential house project at Brīvības Street 313, Riga. These designs are rendered with dual mattings and gilding, giving a rich texture and depth to the coin. The denomination, “5 euro,” is elegantly placed on the right edge, adding to the coin’s visual harmony.

Sixties Legacy and Cultural Impact

The 1960s were a pivotal decade, marked by groundbreaking changes in music, fashion, and social ideals. The influence of Western culture seeped through the Iron Curtain, inspiring Latvian designers and artists. This coin commemorates that era, showcasing the resilience and creativity that thrived even under restrictive regimes.

Artistic and Cultural Significance

Featuring works by renowned artists and designers like Marta Zigrīda Stania, Imanta Jākobson, Harold Kander, Zina Ulste, Gunārs Kirke, and Ulda Razum, this coin is a celebration of modernist aesthetics. It highlights how art and design provided a semblance of freedom and expression during the Soviet era.

Celebrate the innovative spirit of the 1960s with this limited-edition silver proof coin, a must-have for collectors and history enthusiasts alike.