Latvia 2024 Puzuris

Puzuris is a traditional Latvian ornament that visually and symbolically represents the world. It is known by many names across Latvia's regions. Hung from the ceiling, it sways at the slightest breath of wind. The deeper meaning of the swaying puzuris involves the concept of the winter solstice when the sun shifts its course towards the spring, is reborn and regains its strength to rise higher. For puzuris to sway effortlessly, it is crafted from light materials and suspended by a thin thread.

Among other purposes, these ornaments were used to adorn rooms for weddings and baby blessing rites. On such occasions, the central puzuris was complemented by multiple smaller ones. Used as an ornament at a wedding, it symbolised the fertility and harmony of the newly-weds, whereas at a baby blessing rite, its swaying movements promised health and prosperity to the newborn.

Traditionally, there are two main types of puzuris. The first one is a polyhedron – made of straw or reeds. This geometric depiction of the world is featured on the new 2 euro commemorative coin The second one is a round turnip, suspended by a thread and pierced with rye straws, representing a hedgehog curled into a ball. Christmas is the time when the sun arises in the image of a hedgehog and begins its journey towards awakening. Such ornaments are also considered to offer strong protection against the evil and threats.

Weight - 8.5 g.
Quality - UNC (Uncirculated)
Diameter - 25.75 mm.
Composition - Bimetallic - nickel brass clad nickel center in copper-nickel ring
Circulation - 400'000 pcs.
Country of origin - Latvia
Year of release - 2024