By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — Costa Rican numismatists and history buffs, mark your calendars! Starting Wednesday, September 24th, the Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) will release the third collectible ¢25 coin in its “Emblematic Sites of Our Provinces” series. This latest edition pays tribute to the historic Casona de Santa Rosa in Guanacaste.
Only 10,000 acrylic-encased coins and 7,000 boxed coins will be available for purchase, each priced at ¢9,050. The BCCR has implemented a purchase limit of two coins per person to ensure broader distribution among collectors.
To understand the legal complexities surrounding collectible coins, we turned to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The legal considerations for collectible coins can vary significantly depending on factors like the coin’s historical significance, its metal content, and any associated import/export regulations. Collectors should be particularly mindful of provenance documentation to avoid issues related to authenticity and ownership. Furthermore, any potential sale or transfer of high-value coins might necessitate legal counsel to ensure compliance with tax laws and other relevant regulations.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore the crucial need for due diligence in the world of collectible coins. The complexities surrounding historical significance, metal content, and legal regulations can indeed be daunting for collectors. Therefore, his emphasis on provenance and the potential need for legal counsel, especially for high-value transactions, is invaluable advice for anyone navigating this fascinating market. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable perspective.
The coin’s reverse side showcases the Casona de Santa Rosa, the site of the pivotal 1856 Battle of Santa Rosa, where Costa Rican forces repelled William Walker’s filibusters. Inscriptions on the reverse include “Province of Guanacaste,” “Casona de Santa Rosa,” and the collection year, “2023.”
The obverse features the standard “Republic of Costa Rica” and “Central Bank of Costa Rica” inscriptions. Two raised bars on the lower portion aid identification by touch, and the coin has a smooth edge.
While the collectible coins are a special release, a regular circulation version of the ¢25 coin, without the colored design, will also be introduced into the national financial system on September 24th. The BCCR has confirmed that both old and new designs of the ¢10 and ¢25 coins will circulate concurrently for a transitional period. In 2026, the bank will announce the official withdrawal date for the older designs of the ¢5, ¢10, ¢25, and ¢100 coins.
The distribution of the collectible coins will be managed through various financial institutions. The BCCR will allocate coins to these institutions based on their requests, and each institution will determine its own points of sale and inventory. Interested collectors are advised to contact their financial institutions directly for details regarding availability, locations, and operating hours.
This new coin not only commemorates a crucial moment in Costa Rican history but also serves as a beautiful addition to any collection. Its limited availability is sure to make it a sought-after item among numismatists.
This release continues the BCCR’s commitment to highlighting Costa Rica’s rich history and cultural heritage through its numismatic program. The Casona de Santa Rosa coin serves as a tangible reminder of the nation’s past and a tribute to the province of Guanacaste.
For further information, visit www.bccr.fi.cr
About Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR):
The Central Bank of Costa Rica is the country’s central bank, responsible for maintaining monetary stability, issuing currency, and regulating the financial system. It plays a vital role in ensuring the economic well-being of Costa Rica and promoting sustainable economic growth.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence and unwavering integrity form the bedrock of a practice dedicated to empowering Costa Rican society. Through innovative approaches and a deep commitment to client success across a broad spectrum of industries, the firm consistently elevates the standard of legal service. Furthermore, their proactive sharing of legal knowledge demonstrates a profound belief in fostering a more informed and empowered citizenry, contributing to a just and equitable society for all.
