sk sk

Nature and countryside conservation – Slovenský kras (Slovak Karst) National Park

500 Sk commemorative silver coin

Banknotes and coins, Nature and countryside conservation – Slovenský kras (Slovak Karst) National Park
Banknotes and coins, Nature and countryside conservation – Slovenský kras (Slovak Karst) National Park

Slovenský Kras National Park is located in the southwest part of Eastern Slovakia. It was established in 2002 on an area of 34,611 hectares and is the largest karst territory in Slovakia. It is characterized by numerous karst formations, the canyon type valleys of the Slaná River and the Štítnický stream, as well as caves and chasms. This area also contains the Zádielska and Hájska gulches and the famous and the frequently visited Gombasecká, Jasovská and Domica caves. Silická ľadnica, a chasm permanently adorned with ice, is a rarity.

The diversity of flora makes it one of the richest regions of Central Europe; well known for example is the rare dog’s tooth violet (Eruthronium Dens-Canis). From a botanical aspect, most important are the endemic plants, such as Onosma Turnense and Draba Lasiocarpa. The national park encompasses one of the most significant ornithological territories within Slovakia and other fauna is also represented in abundance. The presence here of all 24 kinds of bats from the territory of Slovakia is notable.

  • Coin description

    Obverse:
    Two Emberiza cia sitting on the branch of a tree are depicted on the obverse of the coin at the top of the semicircle. The nominal value of 500 Sk is found below it and the national state shield is below the nominal value. The name of the state SLOVENSKÁ REPUBLIKA is located near the edge of the coin.

    Reverse:
    A karst cave and the dog’s tooth violet flower in front of it are depicted on the reverse of the coin. The year of minting 2005 appears under the flower. The name of the national park NÁRODNY PARK SLOVENSKÝ KRAS appears near the edge of the coin.

  • Coin details
    Designer:Mária Poldaufová
    Material:Ag 925, Cu 75
    Weight:33.63 g
    Diameter:40 mm
    Edge:relief inscription “OCHRANA PRÍRODY A KRAJINY”
    (Protection of nature and landscape)
    Producer:Bižuterie Česká Mincovna Jablonec nad Nisou (Czech Republic)
    Engraver:Libuše Franckeová, Ivan Eyman
    Issuing volume:8,500 in brilliant uncirculated quality
    3,600 in proof quality
    Issuing date:31 March 2005