Latvian lats facts for kids

The Latvian lats (plural lati) was the money used in Latvia. It was Latvia's official currency for two main periods: first from 1922 to 1940, and then again from 1993 to 2013.

On 1 January 2014, the Latvian lats was replaced by the euro. After this date, people could still use the lats for 30 days to buy things or pay for services.

What Was the Latvian Lats?

The Latvian lats was the official money of Latvia for many years. Just like how you use dollars, pounds, or euros, people in Latvia used the lats to buy food, clothes, and everything else.

A Brief History of the Lats

Latvia first introduced the lats as its currency in 1922. This was after Latvia became an independent country. The lats was used until 1940.

After a period when Latvia was part of the Soviet Union, the country regained its independence. The lats was brought back as the national currency in 1993. This showed that Latvia was once again a fully independent nation.

Saying Goodbye to the Lats

The lats was used until 2013. On 1 January 2014, Latvia joined many other European countries in using the euro. This change made it easier for people to travel and trade within Europe.

When the euro was introduced, there was a special period. For 30 days, both the lats and the euro could be used. This helped people get used to the new money. After that, only the euro was accepted.

Images for kids

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  The ℒ𝓈 5 coin, used before World War II, became a popular symbol of independence during the Soviet era. The coin was designed by Rihards Zariņš.

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  ℒ𝓈 20 banknote issued 1935 (obverse).

See also

In Spanish: Lats letón para niños