New coins in Costa Rica: designs, dates, and themes for 2025
- June 6, 2025
- Comments: 0
- Posted by: Andrés David Vargas Quesada
In 2025, Costa Rica will modernize its monetary system with the introduction of new coins. This update includes changes in design, security, and materials. Additionally, the old ¢50 and ¢500 coins will no longer be legal tender as of July 1, 2025. The transition not only aims to improve security and durability but also to highlight the country’s rich identity.
Key changes to the new coin series
The new coins in Costa Rica offer several improvements. First, they are smaller and lighter for everyday use. Then, they incorporate more resistant alloys to increase durability. They also alternate metallic tones to help distinguish between denominations. Lastly, the engravings feature intricate details that prevent counterfeiting.
Cultural and natural themes
Each denomination will have a unique design with symbolic content. The ¢10 coins, entirely silver-toned, will feature the National Coat of Arms. The ¢25 coins, golden in color, will highlight iconic sites from each province. The new ¢50 coins will showcase Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems with six featured animals. The ¢100 coins will celebrate intangible cultural heritage. Lastly, the ¢500 coins, bimetallic, will commemorate key events in Costa Rican history.
Circulation schedule
The rollout will be gradual. In November 2024, the first ¢50 coin (blue morpho butterfly) will be released. In March 2025, the ¢10 and ¢25 coins (Limón) will follow. The ¢100 coin (featuring swing criollo) will be introduced in July 2025. The remaining designs will be launched throughout 2025 and 2026. The ¢500 coins are already in circulation, but new designs will be added in 2025.
What happens to the old coins?
The ¢50 and ¢500 coins of the previous design will no longer be accepted as legal tender after June 30, 2025. After that date, they can only be exchanged or deposited at banks. This change aims to phase out outdated pieces and make everyday transactions easier with modern coins.
A collection that celebrates national identity
The new coins in Costa Rica not only modernize the system but also celebrate the country’s cultural and natural diversity. Each series tells a story: from the National Coat of Arms to Chorotega pottery and Cimarrona music. Additionally, the update strengthens economic security by lowering the risk of counterfeiting.
The new coins in Costa Rica represent a transformation that goes beyond aesthetics. This change promotes greater security, functionality, and national identity. With thematic designs and advanced materials, the country moves toward a more modern and meaningful monetary system.
