Slovak coin 5 EUR 2026 - European pond turtle stand

The latest issue in the series of commemorative euro coins, dedicated to Slovak fauna, features the European pond turtle.

Contrary to popular belief, turtles do not live only in exotic tropical countries. One species is even found naturally in the very heart of Europe. The European pond turtle can live for more than 100 years, but in many places it is threatened with extinction and is therefore strictly protected. A significant decline in its Central European population occurred in the Middle Ages, when river regulation and the draining of wetlands began. The European pond turtle spends most of its life in or near water. It prefers overgrown, stagnant waters with muddy bottoms. In addition, it needs plenty of elevated spots where it can bask, and sandy areas where it can lay its eggs. It also forages in the water—hunting mainly aquatic invertebrates or those that have fallen into the water, but it also enjoys small vertebrates and will not turn down carrion. However, it can itself become prey to otters or storks, and it is interesting to note that in the past, turtle soup was a popular Lenten dish. The greatest threat to the European pond turtle, however, is the development of agriculture, industry, and the population growth in these areas. As a result, it has disappeared from the wild, surviving only in a few areas. Today, its habitat includes, for example, the Eastern Slovak Lowland and the Danube Lowland.

The reverse side of the coin, designed by medallist Karol Ličko, is dominated by a pair of European pond turtles swimming in the water. The inscriptions list the Slovak and Latin names of the species: KORYTNAČKA MOČIARNA – EMYS ORBICULARIS. The obverse side of the coin features another turtle strolling across land. An interesting addition to the obverse side is a colored depiction of a white water lily. The coin’s relief also features the Slovak national coat of arms, the inscription SLOVENSKO, the year of issue 2026, and the nominal value 5 EURO.

The commemorative coin, made of base metals, was minted by the Kremnica Mint and issued by the National Bank of Slovakia.