New Commemorative Coins Enter Circulation
On May 26, the National Bank of Ukraine released two new commemorative circulation coins from the 'We Are Strong. We Are Together' series, dedicated to the Sumy and Chernihiv regions. Each coin has a face value of 10 hryvnias, is struck from a zinc-based alloy with a nickel finish, and has a mintage of 2 million pieces per design.
The first coin is officially titled 'We Are Strong. We Are Together. Sumy Region,' and the second is 'We Are Strong. We Are Together. Chernihiv Region.' Both are legal tender across Ukraine. The reverse was designed by Oleksandra Kuchynska, while the obverse artist and sculptor is Volodymyr Demianenko.
Coin Design Details
The obverse of both coins is identical to the standard 10-hryvnia coin from 2018. In the center, encircled by an ancient Rus ornament, are the denomination, minting year, and the State Emblem of Ukraine. The reverse features a stylized map of Ukraine with clearly marked administrative borders, graphically highlighting the territories of Sumy and Chernihiv, respectively.
These commemorative coins form part of a series that emphasizes the unity and resilience of Ukraine’s regions. It is important to note that as of March 2, 2026, banknotes in denominations of 1, 2, 5, and 10 hryvnias from the 2003–2007 series will cease to be legal tender.
The issuance of these coins serves as a symbolic gesture of national unity and support for regions that have drawn particular attention amid modern challenges. The commemorative coins also help promote the cultural heritage and history of the Sumy and Chernihiv regions among the public. This initiative reinforces the National Bank of Ukraine’s role in consolidating national identity and supporting the country’s economy.
In addition to the newly issued coins honoring the Sumy and Chernihiv regions, the National Bank of Ukraine has also launched commemorative coins celebrating the legacy of artists who faced tragic fates during turbulent times. These initiatives reflect the bank's commitment to preserving cultural heritage and highlighting the resilience of Ukrainian identity. For more details on the coins honoring these executed artists, you can read further here.