The Norwegian Constitution of 17 May 1814 laid the foundations for the development of democracy in Norway and has proved to be more durable than other constitutions drawn up at the same time in Europe. Today, the Norwegian Constitution is a unifying symbol of freedom, independence and democracy.

The commemorative coin issue was a collaboration between Norges Bank and the Storting's bicentenary organising committee. The aim of the bicentenary celebration was to raise awareness of what the Constitution means today and its importance for the development of democracy in Norway, to encourage participation and involvement in democratic institutions and to be an occasion for popular celebrations throughout Norway.

Design and technical specifications

• Diameter: 27.5 mm
• Thickness: 2.2 mm
• Weight: 9.9 g
• Alloy: 81% Cu, 10% Zn, 9% Ni
• Edge: Plain

Obverse (heads side):

The coin's obverse was designed by Ingrid Austlid Rise, designer at Mint of Norway. The obverse features a portrait of H.M. King Harald V facing right. Around the portrait: HARALD V NORGES KONGE. At the lower left edge of the portrait, the artist's signature: IAR. Below the portrait, the year 2014 with the Mint of Norway's mintmark, the crossed-pick-and-hammer.

Reverse (tails side):

The anniversary motif on the coin's reverse was designed by the painter and illustrator Esther Maria Bjørneboe. The motif features Christian Magnus Falsen, in front and in profile, resting his gaze on successive, future generations of women, men and youth. They are portrayed in simplified profile, and symbolise the Norwegian Constitution's long history and the numerous modernisations it has undergone. The coin's denomination (20 KR) is placed to the right, with the text GRUNNLOVEN 1814 – 2014 (Constitution 1814-2014) at the bottom. At the lower left on Falsen's lapel, the artist's signature (EMB).

20-krone coins in the standard design were not issued in 2014.