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A 2 euro commemorative coin of the Republic of Estonia, issued in 2023 in a circulation of 500,000 copies. A coin from the "National Symbols of Estonia" series, dedicated to the swallow. Bimetallic, diameter 25.75 mm, weight 8.5 g.
Obverse
The center of the coin depicts a stylized barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) in flight - the national bird of Estonia. The design conveys the grace and lightness of the swallow's flight, its characteristic forked tail. Around, in a circle, are the inscriptions "SUITSUPÄÄSUKE" (rustic swallow in Estonian) and "EESTI 2023". Mintmark of the Estonian Mint. On the outer ring - 12 stars of the European Union.
Reverse
The reverse is the common side of the 2 euro coins of the second type, designed by Luc Luix. It depicts a map of Europe as a single continent without internal borders. On the left - a large denomination "2" and the inscription "EURO", on the right - a map. On the outer ring - 12 stars of the European Union. The band - with fine ribbing and the national inscription.
Historical context
The barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) has been the national bird of Estonia since 1960, when it was selected in a competition organized by the Estonian Radio and the Naturalists' Society. Swallows are migratory birds that arrive in Estonia in April-May from their wintering grounds in South Africa, and fly away in August-September. They build nests of clay under the eaves of houses, in barns and sheds, in close contact with humans. In Estonia, swallows have always been considered good omens - the arrival of swallows heralded the onset of summer, their nest under the roof brought good luck to the house. In Estonian folklore, the swallow symbolizes happiness, freedom, and a connection with the native land. There are over 250,000 pairs of village swallows in Estonia, although the population is decreasing due to changes in agriculture. The swallow is depicted on the coats of arms of many Estonian places. The issuance of a coin with a swallow in 2023 continued the series "Estonian National Symbols", which began with a coin with a wolf in 2021.