Circulating coins

This collection includes six cultural expressions declared as national and international intangible cultural heritage, aimed at promoting and disseminating Costa Rica’s archeological, artistic, and numismatic heritage. 

Swing criollo [Creole Swing]: This coin celebrates identity, popular creativity, and living culture, as it depicts a couple dancing this rhythm created in the dance halls of San Jose.

Cultural recognition: This coin recognizes Swing Criollo—a blend of cumbia and American swing that emerged in the mid-20th century—as a pillar of national identity, officially declared intangible cultural heritage in 2012.

Tribute to dancers: The coin features Ligia Torijano and Walter “Cupido,” emblematic dances of Swing Criollo, highlighting dance as a way of life, together with the Spanish Costa Rican expression “pura vida” [Everything okay!].

Design: The reverse depicts a dancing couple with the words, “Swing Criollo” and the Spanish for intangible cultural heritage, “Patrimonio Cultural Intangible.” The obverse bears the coat of arms of Costa Rica.