The Bank of Latvia has issued a new 1-lats circulation coin with a hedgehog featured on the reverse. It is legal tender in the Republic of Latvia. The coins will be circulated in the same way as any other circulation money, reaching commercial and other enterprises as well as inhabitants through banks.

The coin has been designed by artist Andris Vītoliņš and modelled by sculptor Laura Medne. The new 1-lats coins have been struck at the Staatliche Münzen Baden-Württemberg in Germany.

An inhabitant and a frequent visitor of farmsteads and even city courtyards, the hedgehog is popular among Latvians and also holds an honourable place in Latvian folk-tales, literature and mythology. An old belief goes that a hedgehog's spine stuck in a lapel or mitten will bring good luck. To minimise the risk to hedgehog's coat of spines, the Bank of Latvia has coined a talisman to be carried in their wallets for those who seek good luck and prosperity.

The reverse of the new 1-lats coin features a hedgehog. The minting year of the new coin (2012) is featured on the obverse, beneath the coat of arms of the Republic of Latvia. In terms of edge, size, material and weight.

Source of information: Bank of Latvia www.bank.lv