National Bank of Ukraine Issues New 10 Hryvnia Coins Honoring Odesa and Mykolaiv Regions
The National Bank of Ukraine has unveiled its latest commemorative coins as part of the ongoing numismatic series “We Are Strong. We Are Together,” this time dedicating the new 10 hryvnia pieces to the Odesa and Mykolaiv regions. These two southern Ukrainian oblasts, both of which have faced significant challenges since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, now join eight other regions already honored in this patriotic collection that celebrates Ukrainian unity and resilience during wartime.
The commemorative coin series represents far more than simple currency; it serves as a powerful symbol of national solidarity and recognition of the sacrifices made by communities across Ukraine. Both Odesa and Mykolaiv regions hold strategic importance as they border the Black Sea and have been targets of repeated missile and drone attacks throughout the ongoing conflict. Mykolaiv, in particular, served as a crucial defensive barrier that prevented Russian forces from advancing toward Odesa in the early days of the invasion, earning the city widespread recognition for its heroic resistance.
The Odesa region, home to Ukraine’s largest port city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, has maintained its role as a vital economic and cultural hub despite constant security threats. The historic city center, with its famous Potemkin Steps and Opera House, represents centuries of Ukrainian maritime heritage and cultural development. The new commemorative coin featuring Odesa acknowledges both this rich history and the region’s continued importance to Ukraine’s wartime economy, particularly in terms of grain exports through the Black Sea corridor.
Mykolaiv, often called the “City of Shipbuilders,” has a proud industrial heritage dating back to the late 18th century when it was established as a major shipbuilding center. The region has endured some of the heaviest bombardment of any Ukrainian city, with residential areas, hospitals, and critical infrastructure suffering extensive damage. Despite these hardships, the city’s population has demonstrated remarkable determination to rebuild and maintain normal life, making it a fitting subject for a coin series celebrating Ukrainian strength.
The National Bank of Ukraine launched the “We Are Strong. We Are Together” series as part of its broader effort to document and commemorate Ukraine’s resistance through numismatic art. Each coin in the collection features unique designs that incorporate regional symbols, historical references, and contemporary imagery reflecting each oblast’s contribution to the nation’s defense. The series has garnered significant interest from both domestic collectors and international numismatists who view these coins as important historical artifacts documenting Ukraine’s struggle for sovereignty.
With the addition of Odesa and Mykolaiv, the series now encompasses ten of Ukraine’s 24 oblasts, with plans reportedly in place to eventually honor all regions of the country. Previous releases have featured areas across different parts of Ukraine, creating a comprehensive numismatic portrait of a nation united in adversity. The 10 hryvnia denomination makes these coins accessible to ordinary citizens while maintaining their collectible value, allowing Ukrainians from all walks of life to own a piece of this commemorative project.
The National Bank has indicated that the coins are available through official banking channels and authorized numismatic dealers. Each coin comes with documentation certifying its authenticity and commemorative status. As Ukraine continues to defend its territory and work toward victory, these coins serve as tangible reminders of the strength found in national unity. The “We Are Strong. We Are Together” series has become more than a collection of currency; it has evolved into a chronicle of Ukrainian resilience, with each new release adding another chapter to the story of a nation’s determination to preserve its independence and identity.
