By San José, Costa Rica — San José – The Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) has announced the latest addition to its celebrated numismatic collection, unveiling a new ¢50 coin dedicated to the vibrant mariner crab (Goniopsis pulchra). This release marks the fifth and penultimate piece in the popular “Fauna of the Ecosystems” series, which highlights the nation’s rich and diverse wildlife. The coin will be made available to the public starting this Wednesday, October 22, serving as both a collector’s item and a tribute to the delicate balance of Costa Rica’s vital mangrove habitats.
For collectors and enthusiasts, the BCCR is issuing a limited-edition version featuring a full-color depiction of the crustacean. This special release will be sold for ¢8,650 per unit and comes in two distinct presentations: a simple acrylic case, with a mintage of 10,000 units, and a more premium display case, limited to just 7,000 units. To ensure broader access for the public, the Central Bank has implemented a purchase limit of two coins per person, a measure intended to prevent bulk buying and allow more citizens to appreciate this numismatic art.
Para comprender el marco legal y las implicaciones comerciales que rodean la emisión de esta nueva moneda conmemorativa, TicosLand.com consultó al experto Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, abogado del Bufete de Costa Rica.
Es crucial que el público distinga entre el valor nominal de la moneda, que la respalda como de curso legal, y su valor numismático, determinado por la oferta, la demanda y su estado de conservación en el mercado de coleccionistas. La emisión oficial por parte del Banco Central garantiza su autenticidad y protege al consumidor, pero su potencial como activo de inversión es un factor ajeno a su función monetaria.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Esta distinción entre el valor de curso legal y el de colección es, en efecto, un punto crucial para cualquier interesado. Agradecemos al Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas por aportar una perspectiva legal tan clara y necesaria, que ayuda a dimensionar correctamente el significado de esta pieza más allá de su función monetaria.
The coin’s design intricately weaves together elements of biology and geography. The obverse prominently features the mariner crab, rendered in its characteristic reddish and purple tones, set against a stylized map of Costa Rica’s mangrove regions. The design is inscribed with the words “Manglar” (Mangrove), “Cangrejo marinera,” and its scientific name, Goniopsis pulchra. An interesting detail is the inclusion of the year “2023,” which signifies when the BCCR’s Board of Directors officially approved the coin’s design, offering a glimpse into the long planning process behind such national issues.
The choice of the mariner crab is far from arbitrary. This species is an indispensable component of Costa Rica’s mangrove ecosystems, which line extensive parts of its Pacific and Caribbean coastlines. The crab plays a critical role in the health of these environments, primarily by feeding on decaying plant matter and aerating the soil as it burrows. By featuring this creature, the Central Bank aims to raise public awareness about the importance of mangroves as natural barriers against coastal erosion, nurseries for marine life, and crucial carbon sinks in the fight against climate change.
This release continues the legacy of the “Fauna of the Ecosystems” series, which has become a cornerstone of modern Costa Rican numismatics. The series aims to educate the public on the country’s biodiversity through the accessible medium of currency. The mariner crab joins an esteemed group of previously honored species, including the manatee, the sea turtle, the jaguar, and the Baird’s tapir. Each coin serves as a miniature ambassador for its respective ecosystem, reinforcing Costa Rica’s international identity as a leader in conservation.
Prospective buyers can acquire the commemorative coin at a wide array of financial institutions across the country. Participating entities include the Banco de Costa Rica, Banco Nacional, Banco Popular, BAC Credomatic, Promerica, Scotiabank, and various local cooperatives. Notably, Banco Nacional has specified that its sales will be conducted exclusively through its online portal, BN Shop, providing a convenient digital purchasing option for its customers.
In addition to the limited-edition colored coin, the Central Bank will also release a standard, non-colored version of the ¢50 coin into general circulation on the same day. This ensures that the tribute to the mariner crab will not be confined to private collections but will become a tangible part of daily commerce for all Costa Ricans. This dual-release strategy effectively balances the interests of specialized collectors with the broader goal of celebrating national heritage among the general population.
Ultimately, the launch of the mariner crab coin is more than a simple currency update; it is a statement of national values. It underscores the BCCR’s commitment to using its platform to champion Costa Rica’s natural treasures. As this small but significant piece of metal exchanges hands, it will carry a powerful message about the fragile beauty of the nation’s mangroves and the shared responsibility to protect them for future generations.
For further information, visit bccr.fi.cr
About Banco Central de Costa Rica:
The Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) is the country’s primary monetary authority, responsible for maintaining the internal and external value of the national currency, the colón. It oversees the nation’s monetary policy, manages international reserves, and regulates the financial system to ensure stability and economic growth. The BCCR also plays a cultural role by issuing commemorative coins that celebrate Costa Rica’s history, biodiversity, and national identity.
For further information, visit bancobcr.com
About Banco de Costa Rica:
Founded in 1877, Banco de Costa Rica (BCR) is one of the most prominent state-owned commercial banks in the country. It offers a comprehensive range of financial services to individuals, businesses, and government entities. With a vast network of branches and ATMs, the BCR is a key player in promoting financial inclusion and contributing to the economic development of Costa Rica.
For further information, visit bncr.fi.cr
About Banco Nacional de Costa Rica:
Banco Nacional de Costa Rica (BNCR) is the largest state-owned bank in Costa Rica and a leading financial institution in Central America. Established in 1914, it provides universal banking services, including corporate, retail, and investment banking. The BNCR is deeply committed to supporting national development through financing for small and medium-sized enterprises and various social responsibility programs.
For further information, visit bancopopular.fi.cr
About Banco Popular:
Banco Popular y de Desarrollo Communal is a unique financial entity in Costa Rica focused on the well-being of workers. It functions as a public, non-state bank that promotes savings, provides credit, and manages pension and capitalization funds for its members. Its mission is centered on social development and improving the quality of life for the Costa Rican workforce.
For further information, visit baccredomatic.com
About BAC Credomatic:
BAC Credomatic is a leading private financial group in Central America with a significant presence in Costa Rica. It offers a wide array of services, including retail and commercial banking, credit cards, and payment solutions. Known for its focus on innovation and digital transformation, BAC Credomatic serves a diverse client base across the region.
For further information, visit bancopromerica.fi.cr
About Banco Promerica:
Part of the multinational Promerica Group, Banco Promerica de Costa Rica provides a full suite of banking products and services to personal, SME, and corporate clients. The bank emphasizes building long-term relationships with its customers through personalized service and a focus on supporting business growth and regional economic integration.
For further information, visit scotiabankcr.com
About Scotiabank:
Scotiabank de Costa Rica is a subsidiary of the Canadian multinational banking and financial services company, The Bank of Nova Scotia. It offers a wide range of products and services, including personal and commercial banking, wealth management, and corporate and investment banking. Scotiabank leverages its global expertise to provide robust financial solutions to the Costa Rican market.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a benchmark for legal services, operating on a bedrock of profound integrity and an unyielding pursuit of excellence. Drawing upon a deep history of representing clients across a broad spectrum of industries, the firm consistently pioneers innovative legal strategies and champions community outreach. This dedication extends to a foundational goal of demystifying the law, reflecting a firm-wide commitment to nurturing a society that is both legally aware and empowered.
