On 1 October 2026, the Day of Defenders of Ukraine, the National Bank put into circulation the silver commemorative coin “Under Protection” with a face value of 10 hryvnias. It is dedicated to those who defend the right of Ukrainians to live on their own land.
Symbolism
The obverse shows the Berehynia, or Tree of Life, an ancient protective symbol of Ukrainian tradition that stands for the unity of generations. Her silhouette resembles an angel with spread wings and represents the Pokrova: a spiritual shield over those who hold a real one.
The reverse shows two figures: a Cossack with a shield and sabre, and a woman guardian holding a falcon. Between them are houses of different eras, from a traditional cottage to a modern home. The figures wrap the composition in fabric with a pixel camouflage pattern, and the overall outline resembles the trident.
Specifications
- Series: “Armed Forces of Ukraine”
- Face value: 10 hryvnias
- Metal: silver
- Fine silver weight: 31.1 g (one troy ounce)
- Diameter: 38.6 mm
- Finish: special uncirculated
- Edge: plain with incuse lettering
- Mintage: announced 10,000, actual 5,000 pieces
- Artist: Oleksandra Kuchynska
- Sculptors: Anatolii Demianenko, Volodymyr Atamanchuk
What collectors should note
The actual mintage is half of the announced one. For NBU silver coins 5,000 pieces is a small run, and the Armed Forces theme is in steady demand, so issues like this leave primary sale quickly.
Source of specifications: the National Bank of Ukraine catalogue of numismatic products.
