Norway · 1978 · 5 kronerIssued under the reign of King Olav V, it celebrates the 350th anniversary of the Norwegian Army (Hæren).
The coin honors the creation and historical role of the Norwegian Army. The Army's Anniversary (1628-1978), The year 1628 is traditionally considered the date of the foundation of the modern Norwegian Army, under the reign of King Christian IV. The theme of the coin draws a parallel between the founding and reigning monarchs (Christian IV in 1628 and Olav V in 1978) to emphasize the continuity and long history of the country's armed forces. Context of the Cold War, In 1978, Norway is an active member of NATO and plays a strategic important role as a bordering country of the Soviet Union. This commemoration takes place in a context of the Cold War, where the Norwegian Army (and the armed forces in general) held crucial importance for the defense of the country and its sovereignty, reviving the memory of the resistance during World War II.
Central motif, A sword standing vertically in the centre. To the left of the sword, the crowned monogram of Christian IV, with the date 1628 below. (Christian IV was the king who founded the modern Norwegian Army). To the right of the sword, the crowned monogram of Olav V (OV interlaced), with the date 1978 below. Legend, the word HÆREN (The Army) is inscribed above.
The coat of arms of Norway (the crowned lion holding a halberd, in a crowned shield). Legend KONGE. RIKET. NORGE (Kingdom of Norway). The face value 5 KRONER is inscribed at the bottom. The initials of the Mint Master (AB), the mint mark (X) and the initials of the engraver (ØH) are also visible.
Actual size compared with the 2 € and 1 € coins. Thickness: 2.21 mm.
10 øre1978 · 15 mm
25 øre1975 · 16.95 mm
5 øre1973 · 19 mm
5 kroner1975 · 29.3 mm
5 kroner1975 · 29.49 mm
5 kroner1976 · 29.5 mm
