Hungary

Hungarian coinage is as old as the state itself. King (Saint) Stephen was crowned at Christmas in 1000 A.D., and coins from Hungary soon became popular in international circulation. Under King Karl Robert (1308-1342) Hungary became a great economic power and the kingdom accounted for more then 80% of Europe's annual gold production. The Hungarian florin (forint) d'or served as the prototype for gold coin issues from the Low Countries to Russia. Hungary's present monetary unit is a direct descendent of these first issues.

During the 16th and 17th centuries Hungary fought bloody battles against the Turks in support of Christianity. During this period some parts of the country came under foreign occupation. The National Bank of Hungary was founded in 1924 and the Budapest mint was established in 1926. This has been the only facility for the production of Hungarian coins ever since.

After the overthrow of communism the coins of Hungary returned to their national roots. They differ from the communist issues in size and design. Some of the coins show native flowers and birds, while other feature the restored Hungarian coat of arms with the everlasting symbol of nationhood, the Crown of St Stephen.

For further information, contact Hungarian Coins, P.O. Box 1071, Clifton, NJ 07014. Toll free 1-800-421-1866.