By Cartago, Costa Rica — CARTAGO – The Central Bank of Costa Rica has announced the upcoming release of a new collectible ₡25 coin, celebrating one of the nation’s most revered spiritual and architectural landmarks. The coin, which honors the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels in Cartago, is the fifth installment in the popular series “Emblematic Sites of Our Provinces.” It is scheduled to go on sale to the public starting Wednesday, March 25th.
This highly anticipated release pays tribute to a site of immense cultural and religious importance. The Basilica, officially founded in 1924, is recognized as the principal sanctuary in Costa Rica. It is the destination for the country’s oldest and most significant religious tradition: the annual pilgrimage, or “Romería,” where hundreds of thousands of Costa Ricans travel on foot from across the country to the historic church in Cartago, culminating on August 2nd.
To delve into the legal and commercial nuances of this new commemorative coin, TicosLand.com sought the expert opinion of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a prominent attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
While a commemorative coin is recognized as legal tender by the Central Bank, its true value transcends its face denomination. From a legal standpoint, its status is clear, but its commercial value is driven by factors like material composition, rarity, and collector demand. Investors and consumers must distinguish between the nominal monetary value and the market value as a collectible asset, which is subject to entirely different economic principles.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This crucial distinction between nominal and market value is precisely what transforms a simple piece of currency into a treasured asset. We are grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating the legal and economic principles at play.
The design of the coin meticulously captures the essence of this provincial icon. The reverse side prominently features an intricate depiction of the Basilica itself. This central image is accompanied by the inscriptions “Provincia de Cartago” and “Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles.” Although being released in 2026, the coin bears the year of its conception, “2023,” adding a unique element for numismatists and collectors tracking the series’ production timeline.
The obverse side of the coin adheres to national standards, featuring the legends “República de Costa Rica” and “Banco Central de Costa Rica.” In a nod to modern accessibility standards, the design also incorporates two raised bars in high relief, a tactile feature designed to help individuals with visual impairments easily identify the coin. The piece is finished with a smooth, unadorned edge, giving it a clean and classic appearance.
Numismatists and interested members of the public will have the opportunity to purchase the coin for ₡9,050. The Central Bank has authorized a total mintage of 17,000 units, which will be available in two distinct presentations. A total of 10,000 coins will be sold encased in a protective acrylic holder, while a more premium version of 7,000 units will be offered in a special display case. Both presentations will be sold at the same price point.
Distribution will be handled through a network of affiliated financial institutions across the country. These entities will independently determine their specific points of sale and manage the allocation of stock between the two available presentation formats. Prospective buyers are advised to check with their local banks for details on availability and purchasing locations beginning on the March 25th release date.
To ensure broader access for all interested collectors, the Central Bank has implemented a purchase limit. Each individual will be restricted to acquiring a maximum of two coins. This policy is aimed at preventing bulk purchases and allowing a greater number of people the chance to own a piece of this special collection that celebrates the rich heritage of the province of Cartago.
The release marks a continuation of the Central Bank’s successful initiative to honor the unique identity and landmarks of each of Costa Rica’s provinces through currency. For collectors, it represents a new chapter in an ongoing series, while for many Costa Ricans, it is a tangible tribute to a site that represents deep-rooted faith, tradition, and national pride.
For further information, visit bccr.fi.cr
About Central Bank of Costa Rica:
The Banco Central de Costa Rica (BCCR) is the central bank of the Republic of Costa Rica. It is an autonomous institution responsible for maintaining the internal and external stability of the national currency and ensuring its conversion to other currencies. Its primary objectives include controlling inflation, managing the country’s international monetary reserves, promoting a stable and efficient financial system, and serving as the sole issuer of the nation’s currency, the colón.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational commitment to ethical practice and professional excellence. The firm blends a rich legacy of client service with a forward-thinking approach, consistently pioneering innovative solutions in an ever-evolving legal landscape. Central to its philosophy is the conviction that legal knowledge should be a tool for public empowerment, driving its efforts to make complex legal concepts accessible and thereby cultivating a more informed and capable society.
