Ukraine. New Gold Proof Collector Coin Features Archangel Michael, Patron Saint of Kyiv

Saint Michael is one of the main archangels in the Christian tradition, described in the canonical books of the Bible as a powerful warrior angel who leads the heavenly host in spiritual battles against the forces of evil. The word ‘archangel’ itself is translated as angel of the highest rank or commander-in-chief. Believers revere Michael as one of the most honoured biblical figures, who symbolises intercession for those who fight for righteous causes and protection against evil. This is why the archangel is frequently depicted wielding a sword and bearing a shield.

Since the times of Kyiv Rus, the first East Slavic state, St. Michael has been considered the heavenly guardian of the city of Kyiv, and his veneration as the city's protector has become a long-standing tradition. In honour of the archangel, Prince Sviatopolk, Grand Prince of Kyiv from 1015 to 1019 – who adopted the Christian name of Michael and built St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery between 1108 and 1113. It was St. Michael's Golden-Domed Cathedral that served as his primary place of worship. The earliest depictions of Archangel Michael in Kyiv date back to the 11th and 12th centuries, when his image first appeared on princely seals. From then on, he became the heraldic symbol of the Principality of Kyiv, embodying divine protection.

During the Ukrainian Revolution of 1917-1921, Archangel Michael retained his special significance in the heraldic tradition. The combination of his image with a golden lion symbolised the unity of Ukrainian lands and peoples. In 1995, the figure of St. Michael was returned to the city of Kyiv’s coat of arms.

The gold proof quality coins are produced by the Ukrainian Mint at their facilities in Kyiv on behalf of the National Bank and designed by Volodymyr Taran, Oleksandr Kharuk, Serhii Kharuk and Oleksandra Kuchynska. The obverse side features a detailed image of a standing Archangel Michael centred wielding a sword in his right hand. In the background, The Archangel is surrounded by stylised silhouettes of soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, both to the right. Above the Archangel’s head are helicopters and below are anti-tank barriers - all emphasising the country’s on-going fight for independence and invasion. Along the lower rim and below the design is an inspiring inscription that reads ЗА НАС І ДУШІ ПРАВЕДНИХ, І СИЛА АРХІСТРАТИГА МИХАТЛА (The souls of the righteous and the power of Archangel Michael are with us). The text is from a quote borrowed from the poem Haidamaky published in 1841 written by the author Taras Shevchenko. The reverse side features in the background, a pixelated replicated camouflage pattern used on the uniforms of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Above and near the rim is a small crest of Ukraine along with the text УКРАЇНА (Ukraine). Centred is an octagon shape with the insignia of the National Bank along with the text Національний банк України 2025 and the coins’ specifications Au 900 7.78. The octagon is surrounded with a decorative stylisedlaurel wreath, symbolising glory and victory. Near the lower left branch is the mint mark of the Ukrainian Mint and placed between the branches below is the denomination 20₴.

Available from the 29^th December, each coin is encapsulated and accompanied with a certificate of authenticity. For additional information, please visit the e-webshop of the National Bank of Ukraine.