Lithuania 10 Euro 2023 - Vilnius 700 (Silver, Proof)

Lithuania 10 Euro 2023 – Vilnius – 700 is a collector coin issued to commemorate the 700th anniversary of Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. The anniversary refers to the first known written mention of Vilnius in the 1323 correspondence of Grand Duke Gediminas, making the year 2023 an important milestone in the history of the city. The coin combines historical references with an unconventional seven-sided form, creating a distinctive modern interpretation of Vilnius and its urban heritage.

The obverse presents the history and architectural character of Vilnius as if viewed from above. At the centre stands Gediminas’ Tower, one of the most recognisable symbols of the Lithuanian capital. Around it, buildings and architectural elements are arranged in a kaleidoscopic composition, reflecting the many layers of the city's historical development and the variety of architectural influences that have shaped Vilnius. The year 1323, associated with the first written mention of the city, is integrated into the composition. The lower part bears LIETUVA, the denomination 10 €, the year of issue 2023 and the mintmark of the Lithuanian Mint.

The reverse interprets the legendary founding of Vilnius. According to the traditional legend, Grand Duke Gediminas, after a hunting expedition, dreamed of an iron wolf whose powerful howling echoed across the landscape. The sage Lizdeika interpreted the dream as a prophecy that a great city would be established at that place and that its name would become known throughout the world. The artistic composition transforms this story into a contemporary numismatic image, surrounded by the inscriptions “VILNIUS” and “700”, together with the initials of the designer Vytautas Narutis. A granite-texture motif extends across the coin's background, visually connecting both sides and reinforcing the impression of a city built through centuries of history.

The coin has an especially distinctive irregular heptagonal shape, with the diameter of the circumscribed circle measuring 36.30 mm. It is struck in 925 sterling silver with a total weight of 23.30 g and a Proof surface finish. The plain edge and precisely defined relief complement the unusual polygonal format. Designed by Vytautas Narutis and minted at the Lithuanian Mint, the issue was strictly limited to 3,000 pieces, making it a notable modern Lithuanian collector coin dedicated to the country's capital and its cultural heritage.

Specifications:

• Country: Lithuania
• Denomination: 10 Euro
• Year: 2023
• Theme: Vilnius – 700th Anniversary
• Quality: Proof
• Packaging: Original presentation box with certificate
• Mintage: 3,000 pcs
• Metal: Silver Ag 925
• Weight: 23.30 g
• Shape: Irregular heptagon
• Diameter: 36.30 mm across the circumscribed circle
• Edge: Plain
• Designer: Vytautas Narutis
• Mint: Lithuanian Mint
• Issue date: 28 June 2023

Package includes: 10 Euro Lithuania 2023 “Vilnius – 700” Proof silver collector coin, protective capsule, original presentation box and certificate of authenticity.