FINLAND'S LAST MARKKA IS STRUCK IN GOLD

A monetary tradition of 140 years comes to an end on December 31 when Finland gives up its markka and joins with eleven of its European colleagues in the introduction of the Euro. As have Germany and the Netherlands, it is commemorating the changeover with an issue of its 1 markka denomination in 18 karat (.750) gold.

Unlike the German deutschmark and Dutch guilder, a new design was created for this issue in a typically modern Finnish style. Also unlike the other two, the Gold Markka is struck in mirror-like proof quality while the others were regular uncirculated strikes. The coin weighs 8.64 grams and is 22 mm (.87 inches) in diameter. While million gold pieces were struck by Germany this year and there are 100,000 coins made in the Netherlands the authorized mintage of this coin is only 55,000. Of these, only 5,000 coins have been set aside for export, so a sell-out is already assured.

The coins may be reserved on a first-come first-served basis for $254.50 each (plus $4.50 per order for insured shipping and handling).

Three 100 markkaa 2000 Commemorative Silver Coins:


1) Millennium.
Not only was 2000 a Year of Jubilee, but also the 700th anniversary of one of the nation's most beautiful and revered landmarks - the Turku Cathedral. This is the first time in history that the Mint of Finland is commemorating an ecclesiastical event. In the center is leaf of Swedish white beam over a Greek cross. The reverse shows a vault cross - a 15th century painting from the vault of St. Catherine in the Turku Cathedral. 3000 sterling silver proof 100 markkaa were struck.
Measure: 1.38"
Weight: 22 grams
Price: $47.50 each.



2) 450th anniversary of city of Helsinki King Gustavus Vasa of Sweden founded Helsinki in 1550.
In 1812, it became Finland's capital. In addition to being the city's 450th anniversary, 2000 was also Helsinki's turn to serve as a European Culture Capital. On the reverse are outlines of some of Helsinki's best-known architecture. The obverse symbolizes culture in the form of a stylized pillar surrounded by the EU stars. Mintage is 8,000 in proof quality.
Measure: 1.38"
Weight: 22 grams
Price: $47.50 each.



3) Aleksis Kivi and Finnish Literature
On the fiftieth anniversary of his birthday being made a national holiday, the Mint of Finland has issued a sterling silver 100 Markkaa coin in honor of the author Aleksis Kivi. Limited to only 12,000 proof quality specimens. The design of sculptor Erja Tielinen, has a stylized 3/4 facing face of the author on the obverse. The reverse has an abstract book as its motif.
Measure: 1.38"
Weight: 22 grams
Price: $47.50 each.