The Croatian National Bank, in cooperation with the Croatian Mint, presents a new numismatic issue titled „August Šenoa“, the third in the „Croatian Literature“ series. This issue pays tribute to one of the most significant Croatian writers, whose work strongly marked the cultural and social life of the 19th century.
Coins from this issue are available in gold and silver editions, in multiple denominations and limited series, thereby continuing the tradition of presenting prominent Croatian cultural figures through contemporary numismatic art.
Historical and cultural significance of August Šenoa
August Šenoa is one of the key names in Croatian literature and culture. He is considered the creator of modern Croatian literature, and the period of his activity is known as the Šenoa era. His works, among which the novel „The Goldsmith's Treasure“ stands out in particular, still hold an important place in the Croatian cultural heritage today.
The uniqueness of Šenoa's life path lies in the fact that he grew up in a family where German was spoken, while he learned Croatian as a boy. It was precisely this encounter with the language that would direct him toward literature and public service. Throughout his life, he worked as a writer, journalist, editor, theater critic, and city official, leaving a deep mark on the social and cultural life of Zagreb at the time.
It is also interesting that Šenoa was a passionate numismatist, which gives this edition an additional symbolic dimension. His connection to coins and the history of material culture makes this numismatic tribute particularly fitting.
Visual solution and symbolism
The author of the conceptual design of the coins is Duje Matetić, who featured August Šenoa on the face of the coin as a prominent cultural and historical figure. His portrait was interpreted in the spirit of the era in which he operated, emphasizing his significance for Croatian literature and identity.
On the reverse side is the motif of the Stone Gate, one of the most recognizable symbols of Zagreb. This motif is strongly connected to the plot of the novel „The Goldsmith's Treasure“, thereby establishing a clear link between Šenoa's literary opus and the city that he permanently marked with his work.
Gold and silver coins
The coins were minted in high proof-like quality and issued in very low quantities.
Gold coin, face value 100 euros (1 ounce)
– metal purity grade: gold 999.9/1000
– mass: 31.103 g
– diameter: 32,00 mm
– forging quality: high forging luster
– author: Duje Matetić, Master of Arts.
– total quantity: 50 pieces
Gold coin, face value 20 euros (1/8 oz)
– metal purity grade: gold 999.9/1000
– mass: 3,888 g
– diameter: 18.00 mm
– forging quality: high forging luster
– author: Duje Matetić, Master of Arts.
- total quantity: 150 pieces
Silver coin, face value 4 euros (1 ounce)
– metal purity grade: silver 999.9/1000
– mass: 31.103 g
- diameter: 38.61 mm
– forging quality: high forging luster
– author: Duje Matetić, Master of Arts.
– total quantity: 1,000 pieces
Packaging design
The coins come in special packaging specifically designed for this series. The gold and silver coins are housed in luxurious book-shaped boxes and come with numbered certificates signed by the Governor of the Croatian National Bank.
Numismatic tribute to a Croatian writer
The numismatic edition „August Šenoa“ represents a blend of literature, history, and contemporary Croatian numismatics. The figure of the author who marked an entire era of Croatian culture has been transformed into a lasting numismatic monument by these coins.
This edition presents not only a portrait of the writer, but also a story about the era in which his work shaped the identity of the Croatian people. Šenoa advocated for the Croatian language and culture, and his legacy still lives on today through literature and collective memory.
Note: This article is for the purpose of informing the numismatic community and is not a paid promotion.
Author: Zlatko Viščević (with AI assistance)
Photos: Croatian Mint
