Austria. Silver Proof and Colour coins Launch New Series ‘Traditional and Trendy’

The first in a four-coin series entitled Traditional and Trendy is dedicated to one of the regional materials, linen which is used to make dirndls. The other three will highlight lederhosen and woollen loden jackets – namely leather, wool and horn. The first topic is Aufdirndln or, linen and features the dirndl, this most iconic of national dresses. A tradition that never gets old, dirndl, and lederhosen are to Austria what the kilt is to Scotland and the kimono is to Japan. Originally the workaday clothing of Austria’s rural population, this traditional attire is now becoming increasingly popular in cities as well. The dirndl, a tight bodice with a wide skirt and an apron over it was traditionally made from linen and whether in its classic or modern interpretation, remains a true eye-catcher. A robust, breathable material, linen is made from the flax plant, which flourishes in many parts of Austria. Linen is not only durable, environmentally friendly and timelessly appealing, it also adds a truly special touch to the dirndl. For many Austrian women, this flattering garment is so much more than just a dress. With its flowing skirt and fitted waist, the dirndl is as sartorially symbolic of Austria as the lederhosen is for men, while adding colour and beautifully emphasising femininity. Today, several different types of fabric now play a role in the production of the dress. In combination with the broad range of colours and designs used, this makes each dirndl unique to the wearer.

Austrian Mint engraver and artist Anna Schlindner was assisted in the design of this coin by her colleague Elena Dolgova. The obverse side depicts a young woman wearing a broad-rimmed sunhat and white linen blouse under a sleeveless dirndl with an apron on top. The apron is the centrepiece of the dirndl and also reveals whether the wearer is married or unattached. It is the placement of the bow – on the left for single women and to the right if the woman is married. In her raised left hand and her basket, the woman carries flax flowers, from which linen is made. In the background is an arrangement or pattern of flowers. The reverse side features the tools used for processing linen by hand as well as spools used for lace and embroidery. Along the left rim is the text REPUBLIK OSTERREICH with the denomination 10 EURO and year of issue 2025 shown near the lower right.

Available from the 9th April, 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 in the style of a peasant chest of drawers is available as a separate purchase. It elegantly combines tradition and craftsmanship and reflects the theme of traditional costume.

The remaining three coins in the series -

2025: – Leather

2026: – Loden or wool

2026: – Antler or horn.