2 EURO COMMEMORATIVE COIN “Sēlija”

Περιγραφή

Latvia consists of five historical regions: Vidzeme, Latgale, Kurzeme, Zemgale, and Sēlija (Selonia). Sēlija is mentioned in historical sources as early as the beginning of the 13th century, but it was only in 2021 that it was officially recognized as a cultural and historical region, following its inclusion in the Law on Historical Latvian Lands.

In 2023, the carmine red–white–green flag of Sēlija and its new coat of arms were approved. The emblem, designed by engraver Edgars Simis, is also depicted on the reverse of the coin. As with the coats of arms of Kurzeme and Zemgale, the emblem of Sēlija incorporates elements of the visual identity of the historical Duchy of Courland and Semigallia, which over the centuries has been represented in various forms—sometimes featuring an elk and at other times a deer.

The State Heraldry Commission established the fundamental design principles of the emblem, which was created in close cooperation with the local communities of Sēlija, municipalities, and social organizations. The emblem is adorned by a noble and imposing symbolic guardian: a silver deer with magnificent antlers and a raised head, set against a red background.

With the emblem of Sēlija, the series of five Latvian €2 commemorative coins honoring the historical regions of Latvia is completed.