The Bank of Latvia has issued a new silver coin to mark the 200th anniversary of German composer Richard Wagner and commemorate his active life period spent in Riga.
The obverse design of the coin features a sailing ship in the billowing sea. This image seems to recall the conclusion of his time spent in Riga. He had served as the music director of the local opera from August 1837 to June 1839. He was ultimately dismissed from his post it seems for financial reasons. He had amassed such large debts that he was forced to flee Riga under cover of darkness and embark on a stormy sea voyage to London. This voyage was the inspiration for his opera “The Flying Dutchman”.
The reverse design features a uniquely composed profile portrait of Richard Wagner with his facsimile signature. The inscriptions include “Riga” and the years “1837-1839”.
Each coin is struck in 92.5% silver with a weight of 22 grams and diameter of 35 mm. A limited mintage of 5,000 pieces is indicated.
The coins are sold at the Bank of Latvia Cashier’s Offices at 28.86 Lats (around 54 USD). Ultimately, newly released Latvian coins are sold by some world coin dealers or on eBay.
fmtransmitter says
Love VAAAAAAGNER….So did Friedrich Nietzsche, one my favorite Authors…Does anyone know why there is a spot to put a picture of yourself on here but no where to add it? Just curious..Thanks…
fmtransmitter says
one left on ebay for $77 shipped. got one for collection.
fmtransmitter says
Received from Dealer in Latvia. Really unique coin. Beautiful. When I turn the reverse on certain angles the mirror “slices” in the waves really pop. After looking under loupe their are one or two slight, I mean slight,marks on the highest point of the frost. Certainly would grade a 69 and not a 70 IMO. Will keep in OGP. Came with a nice pamphlet from the Bank of Latvia also. Will go crank up the “Lost Dutchman” by Wagner now..