Catalog
| Issuer | Abkhazia |
|---|---|
| Year | 2011 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 10 Apsars |
| Currency | Apsar |
| Composition | Silver (.925) |
| Weight | 33.94 g |
| Diameter | 39 mm |
| Thickness | 3.3 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | Japua B.R. |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | NBRA#0360010-001 |
| Obverse description | Silver with selected gold-plating coin (Silver 925, Gold 999). In the upper central part, on the smooth field - the relief picture of the Emblem of the Bank of Abkhazia, under it - the inscription in Abkhazian “Аҧсны Абанк (The Bank of Abkhazia). The semicircular inscriptions above the Emblem indicate the denomination of the coin “10 ҦСАРК” (10 Apsars). Along the rim to the left - the indication of the metal sign in accordance with the D.I. Mendeleyev Periodic System of Elements, the fineness, to the right - the mint trade mark. In the lower part of the coin, on the matted field and raised small print inscriptions of five lines “Аҧсны Абанк” - the year of mintage `2011`. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Cyrillic, Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
10 ҦСАРК Ag 925 ММД АҦСНЫ АБАНК 2011 (Translation: 10 Apsars Ag 925 MMD The Bank of Abkhazia) |
| Reverse description | In the central part of the coin- the image of the Dormition Cathedral of Dranda, to the left – the picture of the cathedral builder the Byzantine Emperor - Great Justinian, to the right – the picture of the Dranda cross, in the upper central part of the coin - the semicircular inscription in abkhazian «Нанҳәа иазку Дранда-ныха» (The Dormition Cathedral of Dranda). The inscription under the image of the Cathedral indicates the date of the building. |
| Reverse script | Cyrillic |
| Reverse lettering |
НАНҲӘА ИАЗКУ ДРАНДА-НЫХА (Translation: The Dormition Cathedral of Dranda) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint |
(ММД) Moscow Mint (Московский монетный двор), Russia (?-date) |
| Mintage |
2011 ММД - Prooflike - 500 |
| Numisquare ID | 4411343990 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued by Abkhazia in 2011, this 10 Apsars coin reflects the nation's ongoing efforts to assert its cultural identity and sovereignty in the post-2008 era. The Dormition Cathedral of Dranda, a venerable Byzantine-era monument, serves as a powerful symbol of Abkhazian historical continuity and deep-rooted Orthodox Christian heritage. Its depiction on coinage underscores the importance of cultural preservation and national narrative in a politically complex region, connecting modern Abkhazia with its ancient past and reinforcing its unique cultural landscape.
Artistry: The coin's design, likely produced by the National Bank of Abkhazia's artistic team, exemplifies modern commemorative numismatic art. The reverse prominently features a detailed rendition of the Dormition Cathedral, with its distinctive domed architecture and intricate stone work. The selective gold-plating applied to the cathedral accentuates its spiritual significance and architectural grandeur, creating a striking contrast against the silver field. This technique enhances visual depth and highlights the subject's revered status, elevating the coin beyond mere currency.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .925 sterling silver, this coin measures 39 mm in diameter and weighs 33.94 grams, consistent with high-quality commemorative issues. Key high-points for grading include the architectural details of the cathedral's dome and facade, as well as the intricate elements of the Abkhazian state emblem on the obverse. The selective gold-plating must be pristine, without any signs of wear or flaking, to achieve top grades. A sharp, full strike is expected, revealing crisp details throughout the design, particularly in the fine lines of the cathedral's structure.