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In the first quarter of 2025, the Bank of Lithuania will issue its first commemorative 2 euro coin of the year under the name “Defence of the Lithuanian State”. The coin’s design is the result of a design competition held for the occasion, in which the participants were asked to: “The theme of the defence of the Lithuanian state against foreign armed attacks should be reflected on the coin through artistic means.”
The winning design has already been selected and will be represented on the new coin. I show you the design below thanks to our colleague Paul (Euromunter).
The obverse of the commemorative coin, dedicated to defence, depicts the contours of Lithuania. The state borders are surrounded by a barrier of stylised thorns, resembling a hedgehog, which symbolises the concept of comprehensive defence of the whole society. The image of the hedgehog also represents the openness and fragility of free societies, which must be defended as much as possible against external threats. Lithuania is presented as a hedgehog that is always ready to defend itself. In the centre of the obverse there is the inscription “LIETUVA” (LITHUANIA), the year of issue (2025) and the mint mark of the Lithuanian Mint.
This coin will have an emission volume of 1,000,000 pieces, 990,0000 will be distributed in rolls of 25 coins and another 10,000 in BU quality will be in coincard.
Lithuania, one of the three Baltic republics, is strategically located in Eastern Europe, bordering Russia and Belarus, two powers that have played a key role in shaping its history and defence policies. Since its independence in 1990 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Lithuania has worked hard to build a defence system that guarantees its sovereignty and the security of its population against potential foreign armed threats.
Lithuania’s location makes it a crucial point for the stability of Eastern Europe. It shares a border with the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad and with Russia’s ally Belarus, which puts it in a vulnerable position in the face of geopolitical tensions. These conditions have worsened since Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the subsequent war in Ukraine.
Fear of possible foreign aggression has led Lithuania to strengthen its defence capabilities. In addition, the Suwałki Corridor, a narrow strip of land connecting Lithuania to Poland, is considered a potential strategic target in the event of a conflict, as it separates Kaliningrad from Belarus.
Lithuania has consistently increased its military spending, exceeding the 2% of GDP recommended by NATO. This budget is earmarked for the modernization of its army, the purchase of advanced weaponry and the improvement of military infrastructure.
Lithuania joined NATO in 2004, which marked a milestone in its defence strategy. This membership guarantees protection under Article 5 of the Washington Treaty, which states that an attack against one member is considered an attack against all. In addition, the country actively participates in joint military exercises, such as “Defending Europe” and “Baltops”, strengthening interoperability with allied forces.
In response to tensions with Russia, NATO has deployed multinational forces to the Baltic states. In Lithuania, a German-led battalion is operating as part of the Alliance's forward deployment, offering deterrence against potential aggression.
In 2015, Lithuania reintroduced compulsory military service as a direct response to perceived threats in the region. This programme has strengthened the pool of trained soldiers and fostered civic engagement with national defence.
In addition to physical threats, Lithuania faces risks in cyberspace, especially attacks targeting critical infrastructure and disinformation campaigns. Accordingly, it has developed advanced cybersecurity capabilities and works closely with international partners to strengthen its resilience in this area.
The defence of the Lithuanian state does not fall exclusively on its armed forces, but on society as well. The government has promoted civic and defence education programmes, encouraging citizens to take part in emergency preparedness exercises and join organisations such as the Lithuanian Rifle Union, a voluntary defence force.
Despite progress, Lithuania faces significant challenges, including reliance on imported military equipment, proximity to hostile actors, and the need to maintain internal cohesion in a context of hybrid threats. However, its focus on international cooperation, modernization of its armed forces, and social mobilization strengthens its ability to deter and respond to potential attacks.
In conclusion, the defence of the Lithuanian state is a national priority that combines a comprehensive strategy of military preparedness, international alliances and citizen mobilisation. As tensions in Eastern Europe persist, Lithuania will continue to strengthen its position as a bastion of stability and resilience in the region.
2 euro commemorative coins 2025
2 euro commemorative coins from Lithuania
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