Published: November 17 2023
Hungary has released two new commemorative coins to honor the 250th anniversary of the birth of Mihály Csokonai Vitéz, an iconic Hungarian poet of the Enlightenment era. These coins pay tribute to Csokonai's literary legacy and are a fitting celebration of his contributions to Hungarian literature.
Design and Symbolism
The commemorative coins, one in silver and one in non-ferrous material, feature a central motif of common chicories, a literary attribute associated with Csokonai's multifaceted poetry. The obverse of the silver coin bears an inscription from Csokonai's "Death Poems," while the reverse showcases a half-length portrait of Csokonai, inspired by an etching by Friedrich John. The design incorporates stars in the background, symbolizing artistic freedom. Csokonai's birth and death dates are elegantly displayed, and the coins bear the signature mark of artist Borbála Szanyi, who collaborated on bringing Csokonai's legacy to life.
Availability and Purchase
The silver coin, with a face value of HUF 15,000 (approximately EUR 39.82), will be available for purchase for three months from the date of issuance, while supplies last. The non-ferrous version will be available for a year. Both coins can be purchased at the coin shop and webshop of the Hungarian Mint Ltd., located in Budapest. It is recommended to purchase these commemorative coins promptly to ensure availability.
Celebrating Csokonai's Literary Legacy
The introduction of these commemorative coins not only marks the 250th anniversary of Mihály Csokonai Vitéz's birth but also serves as a lasting tribute to his profound impact on Hungarian literature. By circulating these coins, Csokonai's enduring influence and contributions are celebrated, ensuring that his legacy continues to be remembered and appreciated by generations to come.
Questions & Answers
What is Hungary commemorating with the new commemorative coins? Hungary is commemorating the 250th anniversary of the birth of Mihály Csokonai Vitéz, an iconic Hungarian poet.
What is the face value of the commemorative silver coin? The face value of the commemorative silver coin is HUF 15,000 (approximately EUR 39.82).
What is the design and symbolism of the commemorative silver coin? The commemorative silver coin features a central motif of common chicories, representing a literary attribute associated with Csokonai's multifaceted poetry. The coin also showcases a half-length portrait of Csokonai, inspired by an etching from 1816. The obverse and reverse motifs extend beyond the coin's edge, with stars adorning the background. Csokonai's birth and death dates are elegantly displayed to the right of the portrait. The coin's designer, Borbála Szanyi, has her signature mark on the left side of the portrait, emphasizing the collaborative effort in bringing Csokonai's legacy to life. The inscription "CSOKONAI VITÉZ MIHÁLY" encircles the lower left-hand edge of the reverse.
Where can the commemorative coins be purchased in Hungary? The silver coin will be available for purchase for three months, while supplies last, at face value, in the coin shop and webshop of the Hungarian Mint Ltd. located at 7 Báthory street, District 5, Budapest.
How long will the non-ferrous version of the coin be available for purchase? The non-ferrous version of the coin will be available for purchase for a year from the date of issuance.
What is the significance of the commemorative coins? The introduction of these commemorative coins not only celebrates the 250th anniversary of Mihály Csokonai Vitéz's birth but also serves as a lasting tribute to his enduring impact on Hungarian literature. The coins are tangible reminders of the profound influence of one of Hungary's literary luminaries.
