Silver Slovak 10-euro coin, 2026, 150th anniversary of the birth of Ivan Krasko proof

The silver Slovak euro coin was minted in proof quality to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the birth of Ivan Krasko, a poet considered the greatest author of Slovak literary modernism.

At the beginning of the 20th century, works signed with the name Janko Cigáň began appearing with increasing frequency in Slovak magazines. However, no one knew this author, so it was likely that this was a pseudonym. A literary critic for Slovenský týždenník decided to uncover the identity of the poet, who had, after a long time, proven that there were talented authors among the Slovaks. He therefore published his own poem in the magazine under the same pseudonym and waited to see who would come forward. It wasn’t long before Janko Cigáň wrote a dissatisfied letter to the editor. The postmark on the envelope then led the critic to the village of Klobouky, where there was only one subscriber to Slovenský týždenník - chemical engineer Ján Botto. Although his identity had been revealed, he continued to use the pseudonym, and when he later received an offer to publish his works in book form, he chose a new one. He went down in the history of Slovak literature as Ivan Krasko. His poems, which describe sorrow, disappointment, unrequited love, an impersonal society, social injustice, the Magyarization of the Slovaks, and the struggle between faith and skepticism, are still taught to children in schools today, and it is not uncommon for them to remember them throughout their lives…

The reverse side of the coin features a faithful portrait of Ivan Krasko, supplemented with his name and life years 1876–1958. The obverse side is dominated by a raven, a rain cloud, and a cross, whcih are motifs that refer to his work. The composition of the obverse side is further complemented by the poet’s signature, the inscription SLOVENSKO, the national coat of arms, and the year 2026. All of this is the work of medalist Mgr. art. Peter Valach.

The coin was struck by the Kremnica Mint and issued by the National Bank of Slovakia.