200th anniversary of the birth of Samuel Jurkovič

Silver 200 Sk coin

The 1840s were an important period in Slovak history, which saw the culmination of the effort of a group of the Slovak intelligentsia to constitute a modern Slovak nation and achieve the national autonomy. The teacher, patriot and campaigner for the economic advancement of the Slovak people Samuel Jurkovic (9.2.1796 – 13.7.1873 Brezova pod Bradlom), was an important member of this group. His many-sided cultural and educational activities included raising the level of village schools, and establishing reading societies and libraries for the public. He founded the Slovak National Theatre of Nitra, which remained for many years, an example for the development of Slovak amateur theatre. The origin of the Spolok gazdovsky (Farmers’ Society) at Sobotiste is important in the European context. It was established in 1845, as the first membership credit cooperative in Europe. It has therefore, a permanent place in the history of the world-wide cooperative movement.

Description of the coin

Obverse:
The coat of arms of the Slovak Republic is placed in the left part of a rectangle formed by horizontal lines. An abstract circular impression composed of corn-ear motifs is placed in the right hand part. The name of the state is placed on two lines above and below the rectangle.

Reverse:
A portrait of S. Jurkovic occupies the left hand part of the coin. A rectangle formed by horizontal links occupies the right hand part and overlaps the portrait. An abstract semicircular impression occupies the right hand part. The nominal value of the coin is placed above the rectangle and the inscription: “Samuel Jurkovic”, and the years of his birth and death, are placed below it.