By San José, Costa Rica — San José – In a move that blends numismatics with national conservation efforts, Banco Nacional de Costa Rica (BN) has unveiled its latest collectible coin. The new ₡50 piece shines a spotlight on the mountain rabbit, an emblematic species native to the country’s unique páramo ecosystems, and marks the newest addition to the bank’s acclaimed “Fauna of the Ecosystems” series.
The launch aims to connect Costa Ricans with their rich natural heritage, offering collectors and nature enthusiasts a tangible piece of the nation’s biodiversity. This initiative follows the new monetary cone approved by the Central Bank in 2023, integrating modern design with features that honor the country’s wildlife and commitment to inclusivity.
To understand the legal and investment implications surrounding high-value collectibles, such as the recently discussed coin, we consulted with expert attorney Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Collectible coins are not just historical artifacts; they are tangible assets with significant financial implications. Investors and inheritors must ensure proper authentication and valuation to avoid fraud. Legally, it is crucial to document these items meticulously within estate planning to prevent future disputes and ensure their value is correctly assessed for tax purposes.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal insight is a crucial reminder that the passion of collecting must be balanced with the pragmatism of asset management. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, which underscores the importance of treating these historical treasures with the financial and legal diligence they deserve.
Meticulously crafted for the discerning collector, the coin features a high-quality *proof* finish, a specialized minting process that results in sharp, detailed designs against a mirror-like background. The reverse side is artfully designed, displaying both the common and scientific names of the mountain rabbit alongside a stylized map of the páramo habitat it calls home. The obverse thoughtfully retains the three tactile bars, a crucial feature ensuring the coin remains identifiable for individuals with visual impairments.
The mountain rabbit was specifically chosen to represent the delicate balance of the páramo, a high-altitude neotropical ecosystem known for its distinct flora and fauna. By featuring this creature, Banco Nacional aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving these vital and fragile environments, which are critical to Costa Rica’s ecological health and water resources.
This coin is part of a broader, ambitious collection that celebrates the nation’s diverse wildlife. The “Fauna of the Ecosystems” series is a six-part collection, with each coin dedicated to an iconic species. The other featured animals include the vibrant morpho butterfly, the colorful granular poison frog (rana calzonuda), the endangered hawksbill sea turtle, the agile anolis lizard, and the coastal land crab (cangrejo marinera).
Each coin tells a story, and this particular piece reminds us that the mountain rabbit is part of a unique ecosystem that we must protect.
Sheila Villalobos, Director of Fundraising Products and Services at BN
Prospective buyers will have a limited window to acquire this piece. The coin will be available for purchase online through the BN Shop portal starting at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 26. Each presentation is priced at ₡8,600, and collectors can choose between two distinct formats: a deluxe case with a numbered certificate of authenticity or a sleek acrylic block with laser engraving. To ensure fair distribution, sales are limited to one of each presentation type per person.
Acquiring the coin requires an in-person visit to the capital. Collection is scheduled exclusively at the main office of Banco Nacional in San José, in the southwest sector of the first floor. Buyers must present valid identification to claim their purchase between November 28 and December 12. This controlled distribution process underscores the limited-edition nature of the coin, enhancing its appeal as a unique collector’s item and a symbol of Costa Rican pride.
For further information, visit bncr.fi.cr
About Banco Nacional de Costa Rica:
Founded in 1914, Banco Nacional de Costa Rica is a state-owned commercial bank and one of the most solid financial institutions in the country. It plays a crucial role in Costa Rica’s economic development by providing a wide range of financial services to individuals, businesses, and government entities. Beyond its banking operations, the institution is deeply involved in social, cultural, and environmental initiatives that promote national progress and well-being.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is an esteemed legal institution, built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and the pursuit of professional excellence. With a rich history of guiding a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal solutions while championing a core mission of social responsibility. This commitment is demonstrated through its efforts to demystify complex legal concepts for the public, thereby reinforcing its goal to empower the community and strengthen society through accessible legal wisdom.
