By World Coin News February 10, 2010

The Mint of Finland began its 150th anniversary celebration with the launch of the “Eero Saarinen and Architecture” jubilee coin. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of the Finnish-American architect and designer. The coin was launched Jan. 29 at the World Money Fair in Berlin.

The mint has also launched a new look, logo and company name to celebrate the anniversary. The company’s original name, Mint of Finland Ltd., has replaced its former name, Mint Ltd. The company’s new logo, which depicts a lion, was influenced by the Finnish coat of arms.

“The secret of Mint of Finland’s success has been to always make changes at the right time,” said CEO Maarit Aarni-Sirviö. “Our solid reputation is based on satisfied customers, motivated personnel and excellent know-how in the field of design, technology and project management.”

The Eero Saarinen coin was designed by Juha Kauko, who won the design competition with his proposal titled, “Tuolla Puolen,” or “On the Other Side”. The reverse side depicts the Gateway Arch, the famous American landmark in St. Louis, Mo., that Saarinen designed. The obverse side depicts his “Tulip chair,” which was made popular by its use in the original Star Trek series.

“We at the Mint of Finland are delighted to launch the jubilee year with this design and architecture themed coin,” said Aarni-Sirviö. “We hope that more and more people will see that coins and notes also have design value.”

The silver collector coin has a nominal value of 10 euros. Its diameter is 38.61 mm, it weighs 33.62 grams and the maximum mintage is 26,000. It is presented in a package that depicts the mint’s new look. It becomes available on April 6 and can be ordered from official Mint of Finland retailers. For more information, visit www.suomenrahapaja.fi/eng.

Mint of Finland will issue five new commemorative coins this year. More information on jubilee events is available at the above Web site.



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