🔎 About the Coin

Denomination: 10 Kopiyok
Year: 1996
Material: Aluminum-bronze
Weight: ~1.7 grams
Diameter: 18 mm
Edge: Reeded
Obverse: The denomination “10 копійок” framed by a traditional Ukrainian floral ornament.
Reverse: The national emblem of Ukraine — the Tryzub (trident), with “Україна” and the year 1996 beneath it.

🏛 Historical Context

After declaring independence in 1991, Ukraine introduced the hryvnia (UAH) in 1996, replacing the transitional karbovanets. This 10 kopiyok coin belongs to the first official series of Ukraine's new currency.

The trident (tryzub) is a symbol with roots tracing back to the medieval state of Kyivan Rus’ and was officially adopted as Ukraine's coat of arms in the 20th century. Its inclusion on national currency signifies a deep cultural and historical continuity.

💡 Collecting Insights

• First Year of Hryvnia Coins: 1996 marks the beginning of Ukraine's stable national currency system.

• Everyday Object, National Symbolism: Though common in circulation, early post-independence coins like this one embody the everyday life and aspirations of a young state.

• Highly Recognizable Design: The trident motif remains central to modern Ukrainian identity and is featured on all coins and passports.

This modest coin holds value not in rarity, but in representation — a tangible link to Ukraine’s emergence as an independent nation in the modern world.