August 2009 | Finland, Official PROOF Euro Coin Set 2009

The Finnish proof coinage 2009 includes the 8 Euro denominations in proof quality.

The set is accompanied by a silver medal depicting the heraldic lion of Finland, exactly the design decreed by Emperor Alexander I of Russia as the official coat of arms of Finland.
 
The set also includes the 2 Euro commemorative coin "200 Years Finnish Autonomy".
 
Year 1809 is a year of great events and impact in the history of Finland.
 
The war between Sweden and Russia waged 200 years ago severed the political connection between Finland and Sweden that had prevailed for centuries. As a consequence of the war, Finland became an autonomous Grand Duchy of the Russian empire.
 
The first Finnish Diet was summoned by an order of Emperor Alexander I to convene at Porvoo in March 1809.

At that time the Emperor confirmed the constitution and religion of Finland.
 
The same year saw the assembly of the first Diet of Finland at Porvoo (Borga), the Peace of Hamina (Fredrikshamn), and the emergence of a central administation in Finland. The autonomy lasted until 1917, when Finland gained its independence.