5 Marka 2000 Olympics

Historical Context: The 5 Marka 2000 Olympics coin, issued by Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1998, holds significant historical weight. This period marked the nascent years of the newly independent nation, following the devastating Yugoslav Wars and the Dayton Agreement of 1995. The introduction of the convertible mark in 1998 symbolized economic stabilization and sovereignty. Commemorating the upcoming Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, this issue served as a powerful declaration of Bosnia and Herzegovina's commitment to international engagement, peace, and the universal values of sportsmanship, moving beyond its recent conflict.

Artistry: While the specific engraver for this commemorative piece is not widely publicized, its design aligns with the modern representational school typical of Olympic issues. The obverse features the contemporary national emblem of Bosnia and Herzegovina, accompanied by the denomination "5 MARAKA" and the country's name. The reverse dynamically portrays an athlete in motion, symbolizing the spirit of competition and human achievement, alongside the iconic Olympic rings and the "2000" date, anticipating the Sydney Games. The composition is clean, emphasizing the athletic form and the global message of the Olympics.

Technical/Grading: Struck in copper-nickel, this substantial coin measures 38.61 mm in diameter and weighs 28.28 grams. For grading purposes, key high-points to examine include the intricate details of the athlete's musculature and the Olympic rings on the reverse, along with the fine lines and elements within the national emblem on the obverse. Copper-nickel issues of this size generally exhibit a robust strike, though the large planchet can occasionally show minor softness on the highest relief areas. Uncirculated examples should display good original luster, with minimal contact marks despite its considerable dimensions.