2027 – Slovakia – 50th anniversary of Charter 77

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Introduction

In 2027, Slovakia is issuing a 2-euro commemorative coin marking the 50th anniversary of Charter 77. Published in Czechoslovakia in January 1977, this manifesto stands as a major milestone in the history of human rights advocacy in Central Europe. Its signatories notably denounced the communist regime’s failure to respect fundamental freedoms and called for the implementation of the country’s international commitments.

At the origin of this movement were several intellectuals and dissidents, including Václav Havel, Jan Patočka, and Jiří Hájek. Despite surveillance and persecution by the authorities, Charter 77 gradually became a symbol of peaceful resistance and civic courage. This numismatic issue thus pays tribute to these defenders of freedom and their contribution to the democratic history of the former Czechoslovakia.

Coin Description

The obverse of this 2027 Slovak commemorative 2-euro coin features a symbolic composition dedicated to Charter 77. At its center is the outline of the former Czechoslovakia, rendered through geometric lines. Several raised hands emerge from the upper portion, evoking calls for freedom, solidarity, and civic mobilization against the communist regime.

In the lower section, a hand holding a pen is poised to sign a document. This motif directly evokes the signatories of Charter 77 and their commitment to fundamental rights. It also underscores the importance of the written word as a tool for peaceful dissent and intellectual resistance.

Towards the center-left, the inscription “Charta 77” appears, referring to the manifesto published in January 1977. The upper section features the name of the issuing country, “SLOVENSKO” along with the year “2027” Finally, the outer ring displays the twelve stars of the European Union, in accordance with the specifications for 2-euro commemorative coins.

Slovak artist Karol Ličko designed this composition for the National Bank of Slovakia. His design combines symbols of solidarity, civic engagement, and historical memory, thereby highlighting the essential role played by the signatories of Charter 77 in defending human freedoms and dignity.

Conclusion

With this 2-euro commemorative coin from 2027, Slovakia pays tribute to the fiftieth anniversary of Charter 77 and to the citizens who courageously defended fundamental rights. The depiction of raised hands and a signature symbolizes peaceful resistance against oppression and the importance of individual commitment.

With a reported mintage of one million coins, this issue commemorates a significant milestone in the contemporary history of Central Europe. It serves as a numismatic testament to the struggle for freedom, democracy, and human rights, while preserving the memory of those who took part in this historic movement.

Issuing Country:
Issue Date:	2027
Total Mintage:	1.000.000
including Proof:	5.000
including BU:	0
including UNC:	995.000
Engraver:	Karol Ličko
Edge:
Rarity:
Official Journal:	To be defined on EUR-Lex

Do you want to know the technical specifications of this coin? Feel free to visit the page dedicated to the specifications of a 2-euro coin.