In order to determine the ranking of the commemorative coins put into circulation from 1 January until 31 December 2012, the National Bank of Ukraine announces the commencement of the Best Coin of the Year Contest.

According to Ms. Viktoriia Suzanska, Head of the Office for Numismatic Products and Marketing of the National Bank, a coin is a rich source of information and a symbol of statehood.

“Commemorative coins bear the images of famous compatriots who have made an outstanding creative and scientific contribution, perpetuate the memory of the development of Ukraine as a sovereign state, and tell us about the historic heritage of Ukraine, traditions and culture of our people,” said Ms. Viktoriia Suzanska.

The contest will be held in two phases.

Ms. Viktoriia Suzanska said that the contest winners would be named in the following nominations: best coin of the year, unique concept, and successful artistic solution.

The three coin winners that have received a majority of the votes in each category will be determined by voting to be held from 21 January until 22 March 2013.

Those wishing to participate in the vote are requested to complete the questionnaire designed to determine the best coin of the year and return it to the NBU within the set time frame to the e-mail address, they can also vote online for their favorites by visiting the NBU's official website or leave the questionnaire in the mail box installed at the regional branches of the National Bank of Ukraine.

During the second phase of the contest, the jury (commission members) will select the contest winners in each category by secret ballot (among the authors of the three selected coins).

Information on the results of the second phase of the contest will be posted on the NBU's official website.