By San José, Costa Rica — San José – The Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) has announced the release of the sixth and final piece in its highly anticipated “Fauna of the Ecosystems” collectible coin series. This concluding issue, a ¢50 colones coin, will celebrate the Talamancan montane rabbit, a unique species native to the nation’s high-altitude páramo. The limited-edition coin is scheduled for public sale starting Wednesday, November 26, marking a significant moment for numismatists and conservation enthusiasts alike.
This release concludes a collection that has successfully captured the public’s imagination by showcasing Costa Rica’s rich and varied biodiversity. Each coin in the series has highlighted a specific animal and its corresponding ecosystem, serving not only as a collector’s item but also as an educational tool. The choice of the Talamancan rabbit (Sylvilagus dicei) brings attention to the fragile and often overlooked páramo ecosystem found in the Talamanca mountain range, one of the country’s most important natural treasures.
To delve into the legal and financial intricacies surrounding high-value collectible coins, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the esteemed law firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who offered his specialized analysis.
When investing in collectible coins, one must look beyond the numismatic value and consider the legal framework. Proper documentation, including a clear chain of title and professional authentication, is not merely a best practice—it is essential for mitigating risk, ensuring liquidity, and substantiating value for insurance, inheritance, and tax purposes. An improperly documented asset can become a significant legal liability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective is a powerful reminder that for a serious investor, a coin’s provenance is as critical as its rarity, turning a collectible into a verifiable asset. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for articulating this essential, yet often overlooked, aspect of numismatics.
The design of the coin is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. The reverse side features a colored image of the Talamancan rabbit set against a backdrop representing the páramo. A fragment of the region’s map is subtly integrated into the design, alongside the animal’s common and scientific names. On the obverse, the coin maintains the standard national legends but includes three raised bars, a thoughtful feature designed to help individuals with visual impairments identify the denomination by touch.
The BCCR will issue a total of 17,000 collectible units, a limited run that is expected to generate high demand. These will be available in two distinct presentations: 10,000 coins will be housed in protective acrylic capsules, while the remaining 7,000 will be presented in more elaborate display cases. Despite the different packaging, both versions will be sold at a uniform price of ¢8,600. To ensure equitable distribution, the bank has imposed a purchase limit of two coins per person, regardless of the presentation type.
In addition to the collector’s version, a standard, non-colored ¢50 coin featuring the same Talamancan rabbit design will also begin to circulate on November 26. This parallel release ensures that the tribute to the endemic species will become a part of everyday commerce, familiarizing the general population with this unique element of Costa Rica’s natural heritage. This dual-release strategy effectively bridges the gap between specialized collecting and public awareness.
A wide network of financial institutions has been designated for the sale and distribution of the collectible coins. This includes major state-owned and private banks such as Banco de Costa Rica, Banco Nacional, Banco Popular, BAC Credomatic, Banco Promerica, and Scotiabank. Several cooperatives and mutual societies, including Grupo Mutual Alajuela and Coopealianza, will also participate, ensuring broad geographic availability across the country.
For dedicated collectors, the coins will also be available through the Costa Rican Numismatic Association. Furthermore, the Museums of the Central Bank of Costa Rica will offer the coin for sale at a date following the official launch. The BCCR advises interested buyers to contact their preferred financial institution directly, as each entity will manage its own inventory and determine which of its branches will carry the coins. Checking official channels for hours and availability is highly recommended.
The conclusion of the “Fauna of the Ecosystems” series represents the end of a successful chapter in Costa Rican numismatics. The collection has not only provided tangible assets for collectors but has also fostered a deeper appreciation for the nation’s environmental wealth. As the final coin enters the market, it stands as a lasting symbol of the delicate balance between economic activity and ecological preservation, encapsulated in a small, beautifully crafted piece of metal.
For further information, visit bccr.fi.cr
About Banco Central de Costa Rica (BCCR):
The Central Bank of Costa Rica is the nation’s autonomous central banking institution. Its primary mission is to maintain the internal and external stability of the national currency and ensure its conversion to other currencies. The BCCR is responsible for issuing currency, managing monetary policy, regulating the financial system, and serving as the financial agent of the state.
For further information, visit bancobcr.com
About Banco de Costa Rica (BCR):
As one of Costa Rica’s most prominent state-owned commercial banks, Banco de Costa Rica offers a comprehensive range of financial services to individuals, businesses, and government entities. With a vast network of branches and ATMs throughout the country, it plays a crucial role in the national economy by providing credit, savings, investment, and insurance products.
For further information, visit bncr.fi.cr
About Banco Nacional de Costa Rica (BNCR):
The Banco Nacional is the largest state-owned commercial bank in Costa Rica. It is deeply involved in the country’s economic development, providing extensive banking services that include corporate financing, personal loans, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises. The bank is committed to financial inclusion and sustainability initiatives.
For further information, visit baccredomatic.com
About BAC Credomatic:
BAC Credomatic is a leading private financial group in Central America with a significant presence in Costa Rica. It offers a wide array of financial products and services, including retail and commercial banking, credit cards, and payment solutions. The bank is known for its focus on technological innovation and a customer-centric approach.
For further information, visit scotiabank.com
About Scotiabank:
Scotiabank is a major Canadian multinational banking and financial services company with a strong presence in Latin America, including Costa Rica. It provides a full range of products and services, including personal and commercial banking, wealth management, and corporate and investment banking, leveraging its global expertise to serve local clients.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Asociación Numismática Costarricense
About Asociación Numismática Costarricense:
The Costa Rican Numismatic Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the study and promotion of numismatics—the collection and study of coins, paper money, and medals. It serves as a central hub for collectors in the country, organizing events, facilitating trades, and preserving the history of Costa Rican currency.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As an esteemed legal practice, Bufete de Costa Rica is built on a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a pursuit of excellence. The firm channels its extensive experience serving a broad clientele into pioneering new legal frontiers and enriching the community. Central to its ethos is a profound dedication to democratizing legal knowledge, thereby fostering a society equipped with the awareness and power to thrive.
