This coin is from the Republic of South Ossestia, a de facto independent republic located in the Georgia Republic. But even after two successful votes for independence, it still remains unrecognized as an independent country. So, while they can issue coinage, it remains officially a "fantasy issue" as it is not legal tender.
For 2013 they issued a series of coins in different denominations with wildlife on them, and the 5 Kopek coin has the bat. Of interest, the 1 Kopek coin has the pygmy shrew on it, and there are very few coins with shrews on them as not very high up the list of charismatic wildlife.
The coin itself is about the size and weight of a US nickel (21.8mm diameter 5.5g weight) and is composed of a copper-coated steel.
For 2013 they issued a series of coins in different denominations with wildlife on them, and the 5 Kopek coin has the bat. Of interest, the 1 Kopek coin has the pygmy shrew on it, and there are very few coins with shrews on them as not very high up the list of charismatic wildlife.
The coin itself is about the size and weight of a US nickel (21.8mm diameter 5.5g weight) and is composed of a copper-coated steel.
2013 South Ossetia 5 Kopeks fantasy issue coin with bat
In general, this is a pretty good representation of an insectivorous bat, the only kind found in that part of the world. And while the detail is a bit lacking, the broad structures are okay although the bat's right leg and foot (seen on the left) are odd-looking at that angle. And while the coin isn't a super sharp issue, my only real problem with it is that the face of the bat is the highest raised point on the coin and even on an uncirculated coin like this one the details get damaged by merely being put in anything short of a plastic capsule.
But close inspection of the face show nice ears, nose, and an accurate open mouth of an echolocating bat. Fact of the day is that many insectivorous bats echolocate through the mouth, and have a wide gap between the front upper teeth to allow for the sound to travel through unimpeded.
But close inspection of the face show nice ears, nose, and an accurate open mouth of an echolocating bat. Fact of the day is that many insectivorous bats echolocate through the mouth, and have a wide gap between the front upper teeth to allow for the sound to travel through unimpeded.
The reverse of the coin has the national coat of arms, the date, and in several formats it says, "Republic of South Ossetia, Republic of South Ossetia, and South Ossetia.
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