Norges Bank

Press release

Norges Bank commemorates Ibsen year

Norges Bank is issuing a 20-krone special edition circulation coin to commemorate the Ibsen year.

Henrik Ibsen is the most frequently performed dramatist in the world after Shakespeare. His plays are still highly topical 100 years after his death and have contributed far more than any realises to creating the Norwegian identity.

Commemoration of the Ibsen year is being coordinated by the National Committee for the Ibsen Year, established by the Ministry of Culture and Church Affairs. The commemoration will focus on Henrik Ibsen's literature and drama and his unique position in Norway and abroad.

The coin will be issued on 16 January and will be legal tender.

The front of the coin bears the portrait of H.M. King Harald. The reverse of the coin shows a full-length profile of Henrik Ibsen on the move. The motif is designed to connect the past and the future. The motif also shows Henrik Ibsen's signature.

The coins obverse (front) has been designed by Ingrid Austlid Rise, a designer at Det Norske Myntverket AS (Mint of Norway). The reverse of the coin has been designed by sculptress Nina Sundbye.

For further information, please contact Trond Eklund, Director, and Sylvi Aspehaug, Chief Cashier, Tel. +47 22 31 60 00.

Contact:

Press telephone: +47 21 49 09 30
Email: presse@norges-bank.no

Published 9 January 2006 09:00