First Confirmed Euro Coins for 2026: National Bank of Slovakia Reveals Winning Designs
The National Bank of Slovakia (NBS) has already published the first winning designs of euro coins that it plans to issue in 2026. These are the first coins from the issuance plan, which will certainly expand throughout the year with additional collector or commemorative pieces. These designs were selected based on public anonymous art competitions evaluated by expert committees. In this article, we present the winning designs that will materialize into real euro coins in 2026.
2 Euro Commemorative Coin – European Capital of Culture Trenčín 2026 (author: Branislav Ronai)
On the occasion of the prestigious title European Capital of Culture, which the city of Trenčín will receive in 2026, a commemorative two-euro coin will be issued. The winning design by Branislav Ronai impressively depicts a view of the Trenčín Castle, one of Slovakia's most significant historical landmarks. In the background are architectural elements of a modern cultural space, symbolizing the connection between history and the present. The committee praised not only the technical execution but also the strong visual and symbolic message of the design.
5 Euro Coin – Marsh Turtle (author: Karol Ličko)
As part of the series Fauna and Flora in Slovakia, the theme of the marsh turtle, one of Slovakia's rarest reptiles, was chosen. The winning artistic design by Karol Ličko captivated the expert jury with its dynamic execution. The coin features a realistic depiction of the turtle in its natural habitat – in the grass by the water, while the reverse side contains a detailed portrait of the head of this protected animal. The committee appreciated the precise modeling and harmonious connection with the theme of nature conservation. The coin will certainly be a collector's hit and a significant contribution to the series that combines art with nature conservation.
100 Euro Gold Coin – 700th Anniversary of the Introduction of the Florin in Hungary (author: Karol Ličko)
The gold collector coin with a nominal value of 100 euros will commemorate 700 years since the introduction of the florin in Hungary. The florin (or gold ducat) was a significant currency in the Middle Ages and a symbol of economic power. The winning design by Karol Ličko combines historical accuracy with artistic elegance – the obverse features a medieval ruler with a coin die in hand, while the reverse depicts the florin itself with period ornaments. The committee appreciated the professional approach, historical authenticity, and aesthetic quality of the design.
These first designs provide a promising picture that even in 2026, Slovak euro coins will be artistically and thematically exceptional. The numismatic community can thus look forward to further issues, which will certainly be supplemented with additional commemorative or collector pieces throughout the year.
We definitely recommend our readers to regularly check the updated offer of Slovak circulation, commemorative, and collector euro coins.