Austria. Latest Silver Proof and Colour Coin Focuses on Traditional Functional Wool Fabric

The collector series, Gschneizt & kampelt – translated as 'Traditional & Trendy' is dedicated to traditional clothing made from regional materials such as linen, leather, woollen loden and antler. The third coin in the series focuses on loden or, fulled sheep's wool still utilised as a symbol of tradition, robustness, and style.

Loden and Austrian traditional costume are inseparable and anyone wearing a Janker jacket or loden hat today feels connected to tradition, nature and their home region. However, loden was originally developed and worn as work clothing as the rural population, especially livestock herders and hunters, appreciated the robust fabric. Made from a heavy sheep’s wool, the fabric was able to withstand wind and rain as well as providing warmth and at the same time is also breathable.

It was during the 19th century that loden underwent a remarkable transformation when the aristocracy and bourgeoisie discovered the simple wool fabric while summering in the Alps. So enthusiastic were the upper class wearers that what had previously been something practical for everyday use was upgraded to festive traditional attire. The work jacket was henceforth worn on Sundays and special occasions and over time it became synonymous with the traditionally well-dressed Austrian. Traditional handicraft is still used in the production of loden today, including at the world’s oldest loden wool production facility. Located in Ramsau am Dachstein, loden wool has been fulled for almost 600 years. Although much more recently, the international fashion world also discovered the fabric. Designers have featured loden proudly in modern interpretations on the world’s major catwalks, impressively demonstrating that it is far more than just traditional – it embodies timelessness and style. 

Designed by Austrian Mint engraver and artist Anna Schlindner, the obverse side features a woman in traditional dress, her bodice adorned with a laced bib and intricate floral embroidery. A loden shawl draped over her shoulders showcases the high-quality sheep's wool. An ornamental band reminiscent of traditional bodice embroidery is shown in the background. A sheep, symbolising the loden fabric's origin, is depicted on the right. The shawl and dress features vivid colour on the sterling silver proof strikes. The reverse side features a magnified detail of a traditional laced bodice with fine floral embroidery. Along the left rim is the text REPUBLIK OSTERREICH with the denomination 10 EURO and year of issue 2025 shown near the lower left.

Available from the 25th March, each proof coin is encapsulated and presented in a heavy gauge card case complete with a numbered certificate of authenticity and protective slipcase. The Special Uncirculated coins are presented in a blister pack folder with illustrations and informative text. The UNC copper coins are sold at commercial banks and the retail shop of the Austrian Mint for their face value. For additional information, please visit the e-webshop of the Austrian Mint.

To complement the new ‘Gschneizt & Kampelt’ coin series, an exclusive collector's wooden box designed as a peasant-style chest of drawers is available as a separate purchase. It elegantly combines tradition and craftsmanship and reflects the theme of traditional costume.

The remaining coin in the series - 2026: – Antler or horn.