The Bank of Latvia has issued a 1-lats silver collector coin "Riga Zoo".

This year the Riga Zoo celebrates its 100th anniversary by actively participating in global and European programmes for the preservation of animal species as well as being one of the most favourite recreation spots for families in Latvia. The Zoo's collection currently comprises 3 200 animals of 420 species, and about one third of the species are capable of producing offspring. Over 90 of the species represented here are included in the world's list of endangered species while 30 have international pedigree records. The Zoo is a participant in 32 reproduction programmes of the endangered species of Europe.

Face value: 1 lats
Weight: 27.00 g; diameter: 35.00 mm
Metal: silver of .925 fineness; quality: proof
Struck in 2012 by Rahapaja Oy (Finland)
Artists: Ivars Mailītis (graphic design); Ligita Franckeviča and Ivars Mailītis (plaster model)

The obverse of the coin features the main entrance gate of the Riga Zoo, with the inhabitants of the zoo welcoming the visitors. Images of seven animals are arranged in a circle on the reverse.

The silver 1-lats coin "Riga Zoo" is legal tender in the Republic of Latvia. The maximum mintage of the coin is limited to 5 000.

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