The Bank of Albania has officially unveiled a new 100 Lekë commemorative coin to celebrate its 100th anniversary, marking a century of national banking history and institutional legacy. The coin, which holds no legal tender status, was created exclusively for this historic milestone and stands as a symbol of Albania’s financial and cultural identity.
A Century of Albanian Banking Tradition
Founded in 1925, the Bank of Albania has served as the cornerstone of the nation’s economic stability and monetary policy. The presentation of this special commemorative coin is not only a tribute to the institution’s 100 years of existence but also a recognition of its enduring role in shaping the country’s modern economy.
According to the Bank’s official website and statements by Governor Gent Sejko, the new coin was designed “to honor the institutional memory and inspire trust for the future.” Sejko emphasized that while the coin is not intended for circulation, it represents a lasting artistic and cultural contribution to Albania’s numismatic history.
Design and Symbolism of the 100 Lekë Coin
On the front side, the coin features the official logo of the Bank’s 100th anniversary, along with the dates marking the evolution of central banking in Albania. The design is elegant, combining modern engraving techniques with traditional symbolism to capture the essence of both past and present.
The reverse side of the coin carries deep national significance. It portrays two symbolic figures:
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A young man wearing traditional attire from Central Albania, reminiscent of the illustration used on the country’s first banknote issued in 1926.
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The portrait of Asdreni, the renowned Albanian poet and patriot, whose image also appears on the modern 10,000 Lekë banknote.
These elements bridge the past and the present, connecting the earliest phase of Albania’s financial history with the nation’s contemporary identity.
A Continuing Tradition of Commemorative Coins
This latest release continues a long-standing tradition. Since 1926, the Bank of Albania has issued several commemorative coins to mark significant events and honor distinguished Albanian figures who have shaped the nation’s story. These coins serve not just as collector’s items, but as pieces of cultural heritage that preserve national memory for future generations.
Numismatists and collectors alike have welcomed the new 100 Lekë edition as a valuable addition to Albania’s growing line of commemorative releases. Experts highlight the artistic detail and historical value embedded in its design, noting that such coins play a crucial role in promoting Albania’s identity beyond its borders.
Symbol of Continuity and Trust
The unveiling ceremony, part of the Bank’s centenary celebrations, underscored the institution’s resilience and evolution over the past century. Governor Sejko reaffirmed that the Bank’s mission remains to “safeguard monetary stability, support sustainable growth, and preserve public confidence in the national currency.”
Through this coin, the Bank of Albania reinforces its connection to the nation’s history, honoring the legacy of those who laid the foundations of the Albanian financial system, while looking confidently toward the next century of progress.