Marta Stana was a renowned architect from Latvia who is remembered for her significant contributions to modernist architecture, particularly during the 1950s to the 1970s. Her works, though many have not survived in their original form, continue to inspire the world of design and architecture. In recognition of her influence, the Bank of Latvia recently released a commemorative coin, paying tribute to her legacy and her impact on the Latvian modernist movement.
The Commemorative Coin: A Tribute to Stana
On October 1, the Bank of Latvia issued a €5 silver coin titled “Building the Unbuilt,” which honors Marta Stana. The coin is made of .999 fine silver and is a part of the Bank’s initiative to celebrate Latvian culture and modernist architecture. Stana’s legacy is marked by this beautiful coin, which highlights her most notable works, including the Dailes Theatre building in Riga.
Marta Stana’s Influence on Architecture
Stana was not just an architect; she was also a teacher who inspired countless students in the fields of art and design. Her influence on future architects, artists, and designers is immense. While many of her projects were never completed or are no longer standing, her vision lives on in the buildings she designed and the students she mentored.
Perhaps the most significant and lasting part of her legacy is the Dailes Theatre in Riga, which still functions as a cultural hub today. Although many of Stana’s projects were not preserved in their original form, this building serves as a proud testament to her skills and dedication to modernist architecture.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Title | “Building the Unbuilt” |
| Material | .999 Fine Silver |
| Nominal Value | €5 |
| Coin Design | Created by Ruta Jumite |
| Mintage Limit | 2,500 Pieces |
| Weight | 25 Grams |
| Dimensions | 32mm x 32mm (Square Shape) |
| Obverse Design | Dailes Theatre, Residential Building in Riga, Rezekne Open-Air Stage Sketches |
| Reverse Design | Gaizinkalns Viewing Tower Blueprint, Budapest National Theatre Sketches |
| Issue Price | €85 |
| Purchase Limit | 3 Coins per person |
| Availability | Available on Bank of Latvia’s official website |
| Minting Location | Koninklijke Nederlandse Munt, Netherlands |
The Coin’s Design: A Reflection of Stana’s Vision
The commemorative coin was designed by Ruta Jumite, a designer known for her diverse creative works. This coin marks her first-ever design for a coin. The design beautifully incorporates elements from Stana’s projects, providing a glimpse into her unique architectural style.
The obverse side of the coin features partial images taken from Stana’s project sketches. Notably, the Dailes Theatre is shown in the center of the coin, set against a yellow background that highlights its significance. Below it is a depiction of a residential building in Riga, and to the left is the unbuilt design for the Rezekne open-air stage. The use of landscape elements and trees in the design represents the complexity of Stana’s architectural practice, reflecting her ability to blend structures with the natural environment.
On the reverse side of the coin, Stana’s unrealized projects are showcased. One design is a viewing tower on Gaizinkalns, Latvia’s highest point. This is accompanied by a blueprint background that adds to the artistic value of the coin. Additionally, sketches of the Budapest National Theatre appear on the left side of the reverse, showing stairs and columns that were part of Stana’s vision but were never completed.
Specifications and Availability of the Coin
The commemorative coin has a rectangular shape, weighing 25 grams and measuring 32 millimeters square. It has a limited mintage of just 2,500 pieces, making it a rare and valuable collectible. The coin was struck at the renowned Koninklijke Nederlandse Munt in the Netherlands and is priced at €85.
To ensure fair distribution, buyers are limited to purchasing a maximum of three coins each. The coins are exclusively available for purchase on the official website of the Bank of Latvia.
Marta Stana’s Lasting Legacy in Latvian Architecture
Though many of Marta Stana’s architectural works have not been preserved in their original form, her influence on Latvian modernist architecture is undeniable. Through her teaching, her groundbreaking designs, and her contributions to major cultural landmarks like the Dailes Theatre, she has left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape of Latvia. The commemorative coin is just one way to celebrate her lasting impact, offering collectors and admirers a tangible piece of history that honors her life’s work.
Conclusion
Marta Stana’s work and vision continue to inspire architects and designers around the world. The release of the commemorative coin by the Bank of Latvia ensures that her contributions to modernist architecture will not be forgotten. The coin’s unique design, inspired by Stana’s sketches and unrealized projects, provides a fitting tribute to her legacy. With only 2,500 pieces available, this coin is a rare and valuable item for those who appreciate architecture and Latvian history. Stana’s work, though not fully realized in many cases, continues to shape the architectural landscape, and her influence remains as strong as ever.
FAQs
1. What is the Marta Stana commemorative coin?
The Marta Stana commemorative coin is a €5 silver coin issued by the Bank of Latvia to honor the legacy of Marta Stana, a prominent Latvian architect known for her contributions to modernist architecture.
2. What is the design of the coin?
The coin features images from Marta Stana’s architectural sketches, including the Dailes Theatre and designs for other notable projects. The obverse side includes partial images of the Dailes Theatre, while the reverse showcases unrealized projects such as the Gaizinkalns viewing tower.
3. How many coins are available?
Only 2,500 pieces of this commemorative coin have been minted, making it a rare collectible.
4. Where can I buy the Marta Stana commemorative coin?
The coin can be purchased exclusively through the official website of the Bank of Latvia.
5. What is the price of the coin?
The Marta Stana commemorative coin is priced at €85. However, buyers are limited to purchasing a maximum of three coins each.