Special exhibition at the Money Museum: There’s more than just litas of the first Republic of Lithuania

‘Historical and modern exhibits are a perfect way to reflect on the creators of a modern State of Lithuania and the then events. It pleases us that, when preparing this exhibition, we had a chance to not only present exhibits of the Money Museum that have never been on display, but also attracted private exhibits from the collections of Eugenijus Ivanauskas, Zigfridas Jankauskas and Vilius Kavaliauskas,’ said Vincas Ruzas, the coordinator of the Exhibition. 

The Exhibition displays early 21st century-litas with a portrait of Dr. Jonas Basanavičius – one of the major signatories to The Act of Independence: 5 litas circulation (1936) and 50 litas collector (2001) coins, 50 litas banknotes (1928 and 2003). Historical values: 2nd Class Vytis Cross of Captain K. Mackevičius, awards of Colonel A. Plechavičius and the flag of the Garliava Unit of the Union of the Lithuanian Army Founders Volunteers remind us of independence fights. Exhibition visitors can also view the medals of three Lithuanian Presidents – A. Smetona, A. Stulginskis and K. Grinius, as well as the medal for the 5th anniversary of the annexation of Klaipėda.  

As a separate topic, the activities of the Bank of Lithuania are presented. The 1922 Law on the Bank of Lithuania, postcards with the buildings of the Bank of Lithuania, a very rare historical photograph of the delivery of coins of the 1925 issue to the Klaipėda Port on 29 January 1925 are on display.  

The centennial Exhibition at the Money Museum (Totorių g. 2/8, Vilnius) opens on 14 February at 16:00 and will be open until 21 December 2018.