The Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) has announced the release of the seventh and final collectible ¢25 coin in the series titled “Sitios Emblemáticos de Nuestras Provincias” (Emblematic Sites of Our Provinces). This piece, dedicated to the National Theatre, will be available for the first time starting May 20, 2026, marking the conclusion of a collection that highlighted representative landmarks from across the country.
The commemorative coin series aims to showcase Costa Rica’s historical, cultural, and architectural heritage. The National Theatre, located in the heart of San José, has been officially recognized as a National Monument and an important cultural symbol by national authorities.
Characteristics of the Commemorative Coin
The new collectible coin features a special design highlighting the silhouette of the National Theatre on the reverse side, along with the inscriptions “Provincia de San José”, “Teatro Nacional”, and the collection year “2023”, corresponding to the year in which the theme was approved by the BCCR Board of Directors.
On the obverse side, the coin retains the inscriptions “República de Costa Rica” and “Banco Central de Costa Rica”, as well as two raised bars to facilitate tactile recognition, a feature present throughout the commemorative series.
The collectible coin will be offered in two formats: an acrylic version and a luxury case version.
The total mintage consists of 10,000 acrylic units and 7,000 luxury case units. The suggested retail price established by the Central Bank is ₡8,400 colones per coin. A purchase limit of two units per person has been set to ensure broader public availability.
Distribution Through Financial Institutions
The BCCR has indicated that distribution of the collectible coins will take place through 17 financial institutions and cooperatives, including public and private banks as well as cooperative organizations across the country.
Banco Nacional de Costa Rica will also enable online sales through its digital platform, allowing collectors to purchase the coin from anywhere in the country.
Coin for Regular Circulation
In addition to the collectible piece, the BCCR has confirmed that a regular ¢25 coin featuring the same National Theatre design, but without color application, will gradually enter circulation starting May 20, 2026. This version will be accepted as legal tender at its face value throughout the country.
This initiative is part of the Central Bank’s strategy to update and modernize Costa Rica’s monetary cone.
History and Meaning of the “Emblematic Sites” Series
The “Sitios Emblemáticos de Nuestras Provincias” collection began in 2025 with coins representing different sites from each Costa Rican province. These included locations such as Playa Manzanillo in Limón, the Puntarenas Lighthouse, the Casona de Santa Rosa in Guanacaste, the Heredia Fortín, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels in Cartago, and Arenal Volcano in Alajuela.
Including the National Theatre in the final piece not only concludes the numismatic series but also pays tribute to one of Costa Rica’s most important cultural icons, representing performing arts, history, and national identity.
Why This Coin Is Relevant
Collectible commemorative coins are of interest to both numismatists and anyone interested in Costa Rica’s history, culture, and symbols. Beyond their aesthetic value, these pieces help bring national heritage into circulation in a tangible format that can be preserved as a keepsake or collection item.
The Central Bank’s initiative also aligns with a global trend of using numismatics as an educational and cultural tool, strengthening the connection between citizens and historical values.
Official Sources Consulted
Central Bank of Costa Rica, official press release regarding the ¢25 commemorative coin series.
Media coverage detailing the launch and distribution of the National Theatre coin.
