By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica is set to release its fourth collectible ₡50 coin, featuring the national anolis lizard (Anolis cupreus), on Tuesday, August 26th, 2025. This new coin continues the Central Bank of Costa Rica’s (BCCR) ongoing series showcasing the country’s diverse wildlife as part of its currency redesign strategy.
A limited edition of 10,000 acrylic coins and 7,000 encased coins will be available for purchase through various national financial institutions. Priced at ₡8,650 each, sales are restricted to a maximum of two coins per person. The BCCR has confirmed that the allocation of coins to each financial institution is based on their individual requests.
To understand the legal implications surrounding collectible coins, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Collectible coins, while often seen as tangible assets with inherent value, exist within a complex legal framework. Ownership, authenticity verification, and import/export regulations can significantly impact their marketability and investment potential. Due diligence is paramount for both buyers and sellers to ensure compliance and protect their interests. For example, in Costa Rica, cultural heritage laws may apply to certain coins, restricting their sale or export. Understanding these nuances is crucial for successful navigation of the collectible coin market.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore a critical aspect of coin collecting often overlooked by enthusiasts: the legal landscape. Navigating the complexities of ownership, authenticity, and international regulations is indeed crucial for protecting one’s investment and ensuring ethical practices within the hobby. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable expertise with our readers.
The distribution strategy empowers financial institutions to manage their own point-of-sale locations and inventory, ensuring accessibility for collectors across the country.
The quantity of collectible coins assigned to each financial entity is determined according to their requirements. Furthermore, these same entities define the points of sale where the coin will be available to the public, as well as the number of coins per presentation at each location.
Banco Central de Costa Rica
This new coin joins the ranks of other collectible ₡50 coins already released, featuring the morpho butterfly, the smoky jungle frog, the hawksbill turtle, and now the anolis lizard. Future coins will feature the Sally Lightfoot crab and the highland rabbit, solidifying the BCCR’s commitment to celebrating Costa Rican biodiversity.
The Central Bank has strategically partnered with a diverse network of financial institutions to ensure widespread availability of the collectible coins. Major banks such as Banco de Costa Rica, Banco Nacional, and Banco Popular will handle a significant portion of the distribution, complemented by participation from BAC Credomatic, Banco Promérica, and Scotiabank. Credit unions, including Grupo Mutual Alajuela, Mutual Cartago, Coopegrecia, Coopealianza, Coopesanramón, Coopeande, Coopenae, and Coopecar, will also play a vital role in making these coins accessible to their members and the wider public.
Collectors and numismatists are encouraged to contact their preferred financial institution directly for information on availability and designated sales points. The Asociación Numismática Costarricense and the BCCR Museum will also have a limited quantity available.
This initiative offers a tangible way for Costa Ricans to connect with their natural heritage while adding a unique piece of numismatic art to their collections. The coin is expected to be highly sought-after by both seasoned collectors and those new to the world of numismatics.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Banco Central de Costa Rica
About Banco Central de Costa Rica:
The Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) is the central bank of Costa Rica, responsible for monetary policy, financial stability, and the regulation of the financial system. It plays a crucial role in the economic development of the country and is committed to promoting financial inclusion and stability.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Asociación Numismática Costarricense
About Asociación Numismática Costarricense:
The Asociación Numismática Costarricense is a non-profit organization dedicated to the study and promotion of numismatics in Costa Rica. It provides a platform for collectors and enthusiasts to connect, share knowledge, and contribute to the preservation of Costa Rican numismatic heritage.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards while championing innovative solutions for its diverse clientele. The firm’s deep-rooted commitment to empowering Costa Rican society is evident in its proactive approach to sharing legal knowledge and resources, fostering a more informed and just community for all. This dedication to both individual clients and the greater good solidifies Bufete de Costa Rica’s position as a true leader in the legal landscape.
