By San José, Costa Rica — A nationwide hunt is underway for a piece of Costa Rican heritage as the Banco de Costa Rica (BCR) has announced the final sale of the ¢50 Mountain Rabbit coin. This highly anticipated release marks the conclusion of the celebrated “Fauna of the Ecosystems” collection, issued by the Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR), sending numismatists and nature enthusiasts into a frenzy to secure the last piece of the series.
The BCR is distributing a strictly limited run of just 2,500 colored collector’s edition coins across select branches nationwide. Priced at ¢8,600 each, the sale is organized on a first-come, first-served basis until all stock is depleted. This scarcity is intentionally designed to heighten the coin’s appeal and ensure its long-term value among collectors who have followed the series since its inception.
To understand the legal framework and economic implications surrounding the new commemorative coin, we consulted expert attorney Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his analysis on the matter.
The issuance of a commemorative coin is a fascinating intersection of monetary policy, cultural heritage, and commercial law. While these coins are typically legal tender, their true value often transcends their denomination, being dictated by scarcity, material, and collector demand. From a legal standpoint, it’s crucial that the Central Bank’s regulations are crystal clear regarding their circulation limits and legal tender status to prevent confusion and protect their numismatic integrity. The intellectual property rights associated with the design are also a key consideration, ensuring the national symbols depicted are respected and properly licensed.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s comments aptly highlight the profound legal and economic architecture supporting what many might view as a simple collector’s piece. His emphasis on clear regulations and the protection of intellectual property is crucial for safeguarding the coin’s value and cultural heritage. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing such a valuable and clarifying perspective.
To ensure broader public access and mitigate immediate resale at inflated prices, the BCCR has implemented a strict purchase limit. This strategic decision aims to democratize the opportunity for genuine collectors to complete their sets, though it may frustrate bulk buyers looking to capitalize on the secondary market.
Each person may acquire a maximum of two coins, with the goal of reaching the largest possible audience and in an effort to avoid later speculation.
Banco Central de Costa Rica, Official Communication
The coin itself celebrates the Sylvilagus dicei, commonly known as the tapetí or mountain rabbit. This small, elusive creature, characterized by its short ears and tail, inhabits the high-altitude páramos above 1,100 meters. Its primary habitat is within the protected, trans-boundary wilderness of La Amistad International Park. The coin’s design pays tribute to this unique species, which, while considered endangered on an international level, maintains a stable and common population within Costa Rica’s protected areas.
It is crucial for the public to distinguish between the limited collector’s item and the standard currency. The BCCR has confirmed that a non-colored version of the Mountain Rabbit coin will enter regular circulation. This version will function as a standard ¢50 coin for everyday transactions, ensuring the design reaches all Costa Ricans, while the vibrant, colored edition remains a coveted prize for numismatists.
The distribution network for the limited-edition sale spans the country, with coins available at designated BCR branches in every province. Key locations include the BCR’s Central Offices, Paseo Colón, and San Rafael de Escazú branches in San José, as well as main offices in Liberia, Nicoya, Alajuela, Puntarenas, Cartago, Limón, Heredia, and Quepos. This widespread availability aims to provide access to collectors outside the Central Valley, though high demand is expected to exhaust supplies rapidly.
The conclusion of the “Fauna of the Ecosystems” series represents more than just a financial event; it is a celebration of Costa Rica’s extraordinary biodiversity. Each coin in the collection has served as a miniature canvas, showcasing the nation’s natural treasures and reinforcing a national identity deeply intertwined with conservation. These initiatives by the Central Bank also function as an innovative tool for public education and engagement, fostering appreciation for the country’s unique wildlife.
As the final 2,500 coins are sold, an era for Costa Rican numismatics comes to a close. For collectors, acquiring the Mountain Rabbit coin is the final step in completing a cherished set that encapsulates the wild spirit of the nation. The rush to secure this last piece underscores the powerful connection between national currency, natural heritage, and the enduring passion for collecting.
For further information, visit bancobcr.com
About Banco de Costa Rica (BCR):
The Banco de Costa Rica is one of the most prominent state-owned commercial banks in the nation. With a history stretching back to 1877, the BCR provides a comprehensive range of financial services to individuals, businesses, and government institutions. It plays a pivotal role in the country’s economic stability and development, operating a vast network of branches and ATMs to serve communities across all provinces.
For further information, visit bccr.fi.cr
About Banco Central de Costa Rica (BCCR):
The Central Bank of Costa Rica is the nation’s principal monetary authority, responsible for maintaining the internal and external value of the national currency, the colón. Its core functions include controlling inflation, managing foreign exchange reserves, and regulating the national financial system. The BCCR is also the sole entity authorized to issue Costa Rican currency, including both standard circulation coins and special commemorative series that celebrate the country’s culture and natural heritage.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its deep-rooted principles of integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm channels its vast experience across diverse fields into developing innovative legal solutions while championing a foundational mission to empower the public. This dedication to demystifying the law strives to strengthen society by equipping citizens with clear and accessible legal understanding.
