Gold coin ŠKODA - Popular Monte Carlo proof numbered

The sporty Škoda Popular Monte Carlo won the 2021 poll for the most beautiful domestic production car. The legendary model is commemorated by the second gold coin from the Czech Mint's new collector series.

The Rallye Monte Carlo is one of the most prestigious and demanding car races in the world. A Czechoslovakian team consisting of Zdeněk Pohl and Jaroslav Hausmann took part in its fifteenth edition from January 25 to February 2, 1936. They set off on a journey of thousands of kilometers across Europe in a special Škoda Popular Sport roadster. The car, which was based on the most successful interwar model from Mladá Boleslav, took a fantastic second place in the 1500 cm3 class. One of the greatest sporting successes in the history of the Škoda brand to date, it contributed significantly to spreading its good name both at home and abroad. The positive response then inspired the carmaker to include a limited series of sports-tuned cars in its range, which would benefit from the experience of racers and racing technicians. The series was aptly named Škoda Popular Monte Carlo and combined the modified chassis of the lighter Popular series with the more powerful Rapid engine. The 1386 cm3 four-cylinder engine delivered 34 horsepower and enabled the car to reach a speed of 110 kilometers per hour. The independent suspension on all wheels was complemented by a transaxle drive system with a gearbox on the rear axle. The first Monte Carlo roadster was delivered to a customer in July 1936, followed by the first coupé in August, and on October 1, it was officially unveiled at the Paris Motor Show. A total of 72 units were produced by 1939. Among the customers was, for example, King Peter II Karađorđević of Yugoslavia...

The reverse side of the coin, designed by medalist MgA. Martin Dašek, presents a general view of the car surrounded by the inscription ŠKODA POPULAR MONTE CARLO 1935–1938. The composition is completed by a detail of the starting number from the Monte Carlo Rally. Si nce the coins of the Czech Mint are issued with the license of a foreign issuer, the island of Niue, their obverse side bears the necessary attributes – a portrait of King Charles III, the nominal value of 10 DOLLARS (NZD), and the year of issue 2026.

The commemorative coin, which is stored in a themed packaging, is issued in a limited edition of only 200 pieces numbered on the edge.