Obverse: The centre of the obverse features a profile portrait of Duke Jacob of Courland and Semigallia. Below the portrait is the denomination 1 LATS. In the upper right corner, the years 1610–2010 are inscribed in a semicircle, marking the 400th anniversary of the duke’s birth. The composition is encircled by the Latin inscription IACOBUS DEI GRATIA IN LIVONIA CVRLANDIAE & SEMIGALLIAE DVX (“Jacob, by the grace of God, Duke of Livonia, Courland and Semigallia”). The obverse was designed by Ilze Lībiete and engraved by Ligita Franckeviča.
Reverse: The reverse features the coat of arms of the Duchy of Courland and Semigallia in the centre – a historical symbol representing the duchy’s statehood and dynastic identity. A Latin typeface is used. Design by Ilze Lībiete, engraving by Jānis Strupulis.
About the coin: The 1 Lats collector coin was issued on 22 February 2010 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the birth of Duke Jacob (Jacob Kettler) of Courland and Semigallia. Duke Jacob (1610–1682) was one of the most prominent historical figures in Latvian history – a ruler known for his modern economic policies, maritime and colonial initiatives, which expanded the duchy’s influence. The coin was minted at the Royal Dutch Mint (Koninklijke Nederlandse Munt, Utrecht). It is a remarkable numismatic piece that unites Latvia’s history and heraldry.
