By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) has announced the release of the sixth and final piece in its popular “Fauna of the Ecosystems” collectible coin series. Beginning Wednesday, November 26, numismatists and the public can acquire the new ¢50 colones coin, which pays tribute to the Dice’s cottontail rabbit, a small mammal native to the high-altitude páramo of the Talamanca mountain range.
This concluding release marks the culmination of a series designed to celebrate the nation’s rich biodiversity. The Central Bank confirmed on Friday that a limited run of 17,000 collector’s editions will be made available. This includes 10,000 coins presented in protective acrylic cases and another 7,000 housed in premium display cases. Both presentations will be sold for ¢8,600 each.
To better understand the legal and investment implications surrounding the trade of collectible coins, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Investors in collectible coins must exercise extreme due diligence. From a legal standpoint, value is inextricably linked to authenticity and provenance. Always demand certified documentation and, for significant purchases, consider placing funds in escrow until an independent appraisal is complete. This creates a crucial layer of legal protection against fraud, which is unfortunately common in high-value niche markets.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal framework is not merely cautionary advice but an essential roadmap for safeguarding one’s investment in a market where passion and value intersect. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on applying due diligence to protect both the collector and the collection.
To ensure broad access for collectors across the country, the BCCR has implemented a purchase limit of two units per individual, regardless of the presentation type. The bank has allocated the coins to various financial institutions, which will independently manage their distribution points, hours, and inventory. Prospective buyers are advised to contact their local banks directly for specific details on availability.
The coin’s design intricately captures the essence of its subject. The reverse side features a detailed image of the Dice’s cottontail rabbit set against a partial map of its páramo habitat. Inscriptions include the ecosystem “Páramo,” the common name “Conejo de monte,” and its scientific name, “Sylvilagus dicei.” The year “2023” is also present, commemorating when the BCCR’s Board of Directors approved the final design. The obverse prominently displays the legends “República de Costa Rica” and “Banco Central de Costa Rica,” along with three raised bars to aid tactile recognition for the visually impaired.
The Dice’s cottontail is a species of significant ecological interest. Characterized by its small size and relatively short ears and tail, this rabbit thrives at elevations starting from 1,100 meters above sea level. It is primarily found in the protected, cross-border wilderness of La Amistad International Park. While internationally classified as an endangered species, the rabbit maintains a stable and common population within Costa Rica’s protected wildlife areas, a testament to the nation’s conservation efforts.
Beyond the limited collector’s editions, a standard version of the ¢50 coin featuring the same rabbit design will also enter regular circulation on November 26. This version, intended for everyday transactions, will be minted without the color elements of its collectible counterpart. This dual release ensures that the tribute to Costa Rican fauna reaches not only collectors but also the general population through daily commerce.
The BCCR’s currency initiative has been a massive undertaking. To date, more than 47 million coins featuring the six different animal designs from the series have been put into circulation. The bank further noted it holds a reserve of over 85 million additional coins in its vaults, ready to be distributed as financial institutions request more inventory to meet the demands of individuals and businesses.
The release of this final coin represents a significant moment for both numismatics in Costa Rica and the country’s ongoing mission to promote its natural heritage. As the “Fauna of the Ecosystems” series concludes, it leaves a lasting legacy in the pockets and collections of the populace, a metallic celebration of the unique wildlife that defines the nation.
For further information, visit bccr.fi.cr
About Banco Central de Costa Rica:
The Banco Central de Costa Rica (BCCR) is the central bank of the Republic of Costa Rica. Established in 1950, its primary responsibilities include maintaining the internal and external value of the national currency, the colón, and promoting the orderly development of the Costa Rican economy. The BCCR is the sole issuer of the nation’s banknotes and coins and plays a crucial role in managing monetary policy, supervising the financial system, and acting as the state’s financial agent.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a beacon of legal expertise, operating on a bedrock of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm honors its profound history of client advocacy by continuously pioneering forward-thinking legal solutions that address modern challenges. Beyond its professional practice, a core tenet of its mission is to empower the broader community, actively working to demystify the law and ensure that legal knowledge serves as a tool for building a more just and informed citizenry.
