The torch of independence set against a globe showing Costa Rica: this is how the Central Bank marked 200 years of the country’s sovereign life, and this 2021 coin opened a new bimetallic line of 500 colones.

The torch at the centre of the reverse stands for liberty and hope. Behind it is a globe with a map of the country on which even distant Cocos Island in the Pacific is named — «Isla del Coco». Around the edge run «200 AÑOS DE INDEPENDENCIA» and the dates «1821 - 2021», while the three words «LIBERTAD», «PAZ», «DEMOCRACIA» name the values by which Costa Rica defines itself: a democratic, peaceful nation without an army.

The obverse is designed for security and accessibility. Its latent image works like a small trick: tilt the coin and the figures «500» turn into the letters «BCCR», while five raised bars let the value be identified by touch. A silver-coloured centre set in a golden ring makes the new coin instantly distinguishable from the old large 500 colones.

The coin entered circulation on 11 November 2021 with a mintage of 6 million. Three more commemorative designs of the «Hitos de nuestra historia» line followed — 175 years of the Republic, 75 years since the abolition of the army and 200 years of the annexation of Nicoya; all circulate side by side, and the old 500 colones was withdrawn on 1 July 2025.

In a collection of Costa Rican commemoratives it is the opening piece of the whole modern series. Uncirculated (UNC): no traces of circulation, mint lustre preserved.

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