5 markkaa FINLAND (1952-1953)

in the coin centre four interlinked loops (St. John cross); along the top edge: • SUOMEN TASAVALTA • (Republic of Finland in Finnish); along the bottom edge year of issue

in the coin centre large face value: 5; along the bottom edge: MARKKAA; on each of the side a symbol of tied hands

plain

???  no data

1 I 1994

Peippo Uolevi Helle

Rahapaja Oy (The Mint), Vantaa

1952	22 048 000
1953	< 9 772 000	mintage together with the later type

1953 - left end of digit 5 of the face value almost touches the symbol of hands (as in the earlier year) or it is far away from the symbol (as in the later year)

The four interlinked loops shown on the coin obverse called the arms or the cross of St. John, sometimes the Bowen node. This symbol is probably a magical Viking sign, which symbolizes strength and prosperity. Finns perceive it as a symbol of happiness and have painted it for hundreds of years on the house doors and tools. It seems that the interpretation of the sign as infinity and eternity is equally correct. Today, in the countries of northern Europe, it is a sign indicating the important monument of culture.

The grave stone from Havor near Hablingo (Gotland) dated to AD 400-600.


photo: Raymond Hejdström