In 2017, the National Bank of Ukraine (the "NBU") sold over 1.2 million commemorative coins worth a total of UAH 106.2 million. These included:
- 830 gold coins;
- 47,300 silver coins;
- 1.2 million nickel silver coins.
The coins were sold at NBU divisions (offices) and the distributing banks Oschadbank and Ukrgasbank.
In 2017, over 472,000 new commemorative coins (86% of the total number of coins that were pre-ordered online) were sold through the online pre-ordering system.
Overall, in 2017, the NBU issued 47 commemorative coins (11 silver coins, 9 bimetal coins, and 27 nickel silver coins) and 4 commemorative medals. Their total number came in at 1,442,500 coins.
Last year also saw a three-time increase in the sale of bullion coins: in 2017, the NBU sold about 15,900 bullion coins worth a total of UAH 82.6 million (5,200 gold coins and 10,700 silver coins). The NBU purchased 313 bullion coins from private individuals in 2017.
Sales figures for Ukrainian commemorative and bullion coins show that there is strong, both domestic and foreign, demand for Ukrainian numismatic products.
More specifically, the NBU had entered into agreements with nonresident German, Polish and Hong-Kong companies, under which the central bank sold about 29,000 coins in 2017. These included 22,000 bullion and 6,600 commemorative coins worth a total of about UAH 20 million or about USD 716,500 in the equivalent.
Ukrainian coins are also in high demand at international numismatic exhibitions. At the latest numismatic exhibition held by the World Money Fair in Berlin (Germany), which brings together the largest numbers of numismatic producers, wholesale dealers and collectors from over 50 countries, exhibition stands with Ukrainian commemorative coins and souvenir products were viewed by about 10,000 visitors.
For reference
Ukraine launched its own numismatic program in 1995.
Every year, the NBU issues over 40 commemorative coins. These coins are included in 30 series and commemorate Ukrainian history, traditions, nature, achievements, cities, architectural monuments, and most importantly, people.