National Bank of Ukraine Releases New 10 Hryvnia Commemorative Coins Honoring Odesa and Mykolaiv Regions

The National Bank of Ukraine has unveiled two new commemorative coins as part of its ongoing numismatic series celebrating the resilience and unity of Ukrainian regions during wartime. The latest additions to the “We Are Strong. We Are Together” collection honor the Odesa and Mykolaiv regions, two strategically vital areas along Ukraine’s Black Sea coast that have demonstrated remarkable courage and determination since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Each coin carries a nominal value of 10 hryvnias and features distinctive artistic designs that reflect the unique cultural heritage, historical significance, and indomitable spirit of these southern Ukrainian territories. The commemorative series represents more than just currency; it serves as a powerful symbol of national solidarity and recognition of the sacrifices made by communities across the country during one of the most challenging periods in Ukraine’s modern history.

The Odesa region coin pays tribute to one of Ukraine’s most culturally significant cities, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Black Sea.” Founded in 1794 during the reign of Catherine the Great, Odesa has long served as a crucial maritime hub and a melting pot of diverse cultures, including Ukrainian, Jewish, Greek, and Italian influences. The city’s famous Potemkin Stairs, the Odesa Opera and Ballet Theater, and its distinctive architectural heritage have made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate. Since the war began, Odesa has faced numerous missile and drone attacks targeting its port infrastructure and civilian areas, yet the city continues to function as a vital corridor for Ukrainian grain exports under the Black Sea Initiative.

Mykolaiv, the neighboring region also honored in this coin release, has endured some of the heaviest bombardment of any Ukrainian city outside the immediate front lines. Located just 60 kilometers from the administrative boundary with Russian-occupied Kherson region, Mykolaiv served as a critical defensive stronghold that prevented Russian forces from advancing toward Odesa in the early months of the invasion. The city’s shipbuilding heritage dates back to the 18th century, and it remains home to several major shipyards that have historically produced vessels for both civilian and military purposes.

With the addition of these two coins, the “We Are Strong. We Are Together” series has now expanded to cover ten Ukrainian regions. This ambitious numismatic project by the National Bank serves multiple purposes: commemorating the wartime contributions of different territories, boosting national morale, and creating collectible items that document this pivotal moment in Ukrainian history. Previous releases in the series have honored other regions that have faced significant challenges during the conflict, creating a comprehensive tribute to Ukrainian unity and resilience.

Commemorative coins have a long tradition in Ukraine’s monetary policy, often marking important historical events, cultural achievements, and national figures. The NBU regularly releases special edition coins that become sought-after items among collectors both domestically and internationally. These pieces typically feature high-quality craftsmanship and limited mintage numbers, making them valuable additions to numismatic collections. The wartime series has attracted particular attention as tangible artifacts that capture the spirit of Ukrainian resistance and community solidarity during an unprecedented crisis.

The symbolic importance of these coins extends beyond their monetary or collectible value. By highlighting individual regions, the National Bank emphasizes that every part of Ukraine contributes to the nation’s overall strength and identity. The southern regions of Odesa and Mykolaiv, with their strategic Black Sea locations, agricultural importance, and industrial capabilities, represent essential components of Ukraine’s economy and security infrastructure. Their inclusion in this commemorative series acknowledges the particular hardships faced by communities living under constant threat of aerial attacks while maintaining essential functions that support both the war effort and civilian life.

The National Bank has indicated that additional coins honoring other Ukrainian regions will be released as the series continues, eventually creating a complete collection representing all areas of the country. This comprehensive approach ensures that no region’s contribution goes unrecognized and provides citizens throughout Ukraine with tangible symbols of their shared national experience. For collectors and ordinary Ukrainians alike, these coins serve as enduring reminders of a nation’s determination to remain united and strong in the face of extraordinary adversity.