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A 2 euro commemorative coin of the Republic of Latvia, issued in 2024 in a circulation of 412,000 copies. Dedicated to puzuris, a traditional Latvian winter solstice ornament. It was minted at the Lithuanian Mint in Vilnius. Bimetallic, diameter 25.75 mm, weight 8.5 g.
Obverse
The center of the coin depicts a stylized image of puzuris, a Latvian festive ornament in the form of a geometric straw sculpture that rotates in the air. Traditionally made of rye straw strung on threads in the shape of a polyhedron (octahedron, dodecahedron or more complex structure). At the top is the inscription "PUZURIS". At the bottom is the name of the issuing country "LATVIJA" and the year "2024". On the outer ring are the 12 five-pointed 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 (Royal Belgian Mint). It depicts a map of Europe as a single continent without internal borders - a symbol of European unity. On the left is a large denomination "2" and the inscription "EURO", on the right is a map with six thin horizontal lines in the background. On the outer ring are the 12 stars of the European Union. The band is finely fluted and has the Latvian inscription "DIEVS ★ SVĒTĪ ★ LATVIJU" (God bless Latvia - the name of the national anthem).
Historical context
Puzuris (puzuris, plural puzuri) is a traditional Latvian festive straw product, typical for the period of the winter solstice (Zimassviētki), Christmas (Ziemassvētki) and weddings. It is made of rye straw strung on threads, creating geometric three-dimensional figures - most often octahedrons, double pyramids, dodecahedrons or complex multidimensional structures. Puzuris is suspended from the ceiling and slowly rotates from air currents, resembling the movement of celestial bodies. In Latvian folk tradition, the puzuris has a deep symbolic meaning: it represents the world tree, the sun, harmony, the creation of the world from chaos, and the protection of the home from evil forces. The making of the puzuris is an important part of Latvian intangible cultural heritage. The tradition is taught in families, community workshops, and at special celebrations. In 2024, Latvia dedicated a special coin to the puzuris as a symbol of folk culture.