Latvia 5 Lati 1931 MS-63 by NGC

Latvia 5 Lati 1931 – MS-63 by NGC is one of the most recognizable silver coins of the first Republic of Latvia and an important piece of Latvian 20th-century numismatic history. The 5-lats denomination was issued during the interwar period of independent Latvia, with the 1931 issue struck in a substantial mintage of 2,000,000 pieces. Today, examples certified by a major grading service in an attractive Mint State grade are especially interesting for collectors seeking historically important Latvian coins with independently authenticated condition.

The coin was designed by the renowned Latvian graphic artist Rihards Zariņš (1869–1939). One side presents the large coat of arms of the Republic of Latvia, accompanied by the denomination PIECI 5 LATI and the year 1931. The national coat of arms gives the denomination a distinctly state-oriented character, reflecting the symbolism and identity of the newly established Latvian Republic.

The other side features the famous Latvian folk-maiden in right-facing profile, wearing a stylized traditional headdress and with ears of grain over her shoulder. The image is popularly known as Milda and became one of the most enduring visual symbols associated with independent Latvia. The model for the portrait was Zelma Brauere. The inscriptions LATVIJAS REPUBLIKA frame the portrait, while the grain motif conveys associations with Latvia, its people, agricultural heritage and prosperity.

The coin was struck by The Royal Mint in London in .835 fine silver. Its edge carries the incuse national inscription “DIEVS SVĒTĪ LATVIJU” (“God Bless Latvia”), with the words separated by three six-pointed stars. The combination of the national coat of arms, Milda, grain symbolism and patriotic edge lettering makes this issue far more than a conventional circulation denomination: it is an important visual document of Latvia's first period of independence.

This particular specimen is professionally certified by NGC as MS-63. The MS designation indicates Mint State, meaning that the coin has not been graded as circulated; the numerical grade 63 places it in the NGC Mint State scale and distinguishes the offered specimen from the many examples of the type that have experienced circulation and handling. For collectors, an encapsulated NGC MS-63 example offers the additional advantages of professional authentication, standardized grading and secure long-term storage.

Specifications:

• Country: Latvia
• Denomination: 5 Lati
• Year: 1931
• Period: Republic of Latvia, First Republic (1918–1940)
• Theme: Latvian national symbolism / Milda
• Quality: MS-63, certified by NGC
• Mintage: 2,000,000 pieces
• Metal: Silver .835
• Weight: 25.00 g
• Diameter: 37 mm
• Thickness: approx. 2.8 mm
• Shape: Round
• Designer: Rihards Zariņš
• Portrait model: Zelma Brauere
• Mint: The Royal Mint, London, United Kingdom
• Reference: KM#9
• Edge: Incuse lettering “DIEVS SVĒTĪ LATVIJU”, separated by three six-pointed stars
• Certification: NGC MS-63

Package includes: 1 × Latvia 5 Lati 1931 silver coin, professionally certified NGC MS-63 and presented in the original NGC protective holder.