1993 Slovak Republic 200 Korun '150th Anniversary of the Codification of the Slovak Language' Commemorative Coin
Coin/Bullion · Mincovňa Kremnica (Kremnica Mint). One of the world's oldest continuously operating mints, established in 1328 in Slovakia.
Pattern: Commemorative Numismatic Issue - 150th Anniversary of the Codification of the Slovak Language by Ľudovít Štúr.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Mincovňa Kremnica (Kremnica Mint). One of the world's oldest continuously operating mints, established in 1328 in Slovakia.
Material
.750 Silver (75% silver, 25% copper). This was the standard purity for early Slovak silver commemorative coinage.
Dimensions
Diameter: 34 mm; Weight: 20.0 grams (standard for this 1993 200 Korun issue).
Description
This 1993 silver commemorative coin celebrates a pivotal moment in Slovak nationalism: the 1843 codification of the Slovak language. It features the bold typography 'SLOVENSKÁ REPUBLIKA' and the state emblem on the obverse. The visual language is clean and modern, representing the identity of a newly independent nation.
Key Features
Obverse shows the national shield; Reverse shows revolutionary leader Ľudovít Štúr; Mint mark 'MK'; specific .750 silver fineness unique to this era's commemoratives.
Material & Composition
.750 Silver (75% silver, 25% copper). This was the standard purity for early Slovak silver commemorative coinage.
Finish & Decoration
Uncirculated (UNC) or Proof-like strike. Features the Slovak Coat of Arms (double cross over three hills) on the obverse; the reverse depicts Ľudovít Štúr with historic script.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'MK' in a circle (Kremnica Mint) located below the year 1993; 'Ag 750' purity mark is often struck on the coin's edge or documented in the accompanying certificate.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck coin. Machine-made with precise pressure to ensure high-relief detail and planchet consistency.
Functional Features
Legal tender value of 200 Korún (Slovak Crowns) at the time of issue; now demonetized following the adoption of the Euro.
Handle & Grip Details
None (standard round coinage). The coin is currently housed in a basic PVC or poly-protective flip/sleeve.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial minting. The relief is sharp with well-defined borders and clear lettering. The toning indicates an original, uncleaned surface.
Authentication Indicators
The typography, placement of the 'MK' mint mark, and the specific iconography of the Slovak double cross are consistent with official 1993 Kremnica issues.
Origin & Manufacturing
Kremnica, Slovak Republic. Manufactured using traditional European minting standards in a state-owned facility.
Era & Period
Post-Cold War / Post-Velvet Divorce Era. Specifically the first year of the modern Slovak Republic's independence.
Age Estimate
Dated 1993. This represents the inaugural year of the Slovak Republic after the split of Czechoslovakia.
Cultural Significance
Represents the linguistic and political sovereignty of Slovakia. It commemorates the intellectual movement that allowed Slovaks to unify under a common written language during the 19th-century 'National Awakening'.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. The coin shows noticeable colorful 'rainbow' toning around the edges, likely due to reaction with the sulfur in the plastic sleeve. No major scratches or dents are visible.
Value Estimate
$15.00 - $30.00 USD. Value is based on silver melt weight plus a modest numismatic premium for its status as a foundational modern Slovak issue.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives. It is recommended to remove the coin from the current plastic sleeve if it contains PVC, as it causes the green/rainbow corrosion seen on the edge. Store in an acid-free PVC-free airtight capsule.
Similar Pieces
1994 200 Korun 'Jozef Šafárik'; 1995 200 Korun 'Štefan Moyzes'. Similar in weight and silver content but featuring different historical figures.
Interesting Facts
This was one of the very first silver commemorative coins issued by the newly formed Slovak Republic. Ľudovít Štúr, depicted on the reverse, is a national hero as he codified the first central Slovak literary standard.