Croatia launches limited-edition coins honouring Queen Jelena

by croatiaweek
March 16, 2026
in Entertainment

(Photo: Branimir Kralj)

The Croatian National Bank has unveiled a new numismatic issue dedicated to Queen Jelena the Glorious, continuing its acclaimed “Croatian Rulers” series.

Released in cooperation with the Croatian Mint, the collection celebrates one of the most respected female figures of Croatia’s early medieval history.

Wise, resolute and compassionate, Queen Jelena left a lasting mark on Croatia during the 10th century. Unlike many historical figures whose stories survive only through legend, Jelena’s name endured through stone.

Her legacy resurfaced in the late 19th century with the discovery of fragments of a funerary epitaph in Solin, near Split.

The inscription confirmed that she was the wife of King Mihajlo Krešimir II and the mother of King Stjepan Držislav. More than that, it revealed her reputation as a ruler remembered for caring for the poor, orphans and widows. Because of this role, she became known among the people as “Jelena Slavna”, Jelena the Glorious.

The discovery of the epitaph sparked widespread public interest at the time. Church bells rang across Split as news spread of the find, which confirmed the continuity of Croatia’s royal heritage. Although the stone fragments were broken, they provided powerful proof of Queen Jelena’s historical presence.

Limited collector editions

The new numismatic release includes several gold and silver collector coins, all issued in strictly limited numbers.

Three gold coins are available:

• 100 euro coin (1 ounce) – limited to just 100 pieces

• 25 euro coin (1/4 ounce) – 300 pieces

• 10 euro coin (1/16 ounce) – 1,500 pieces

The collection also includes two silver coins:

• 6 euro coin (2 ounces) – 500 pieces

• 4 euro coin (1 ounce) – 2,000 pieces

(Croatian Mint)

The one-ounce gold coin is minted in the highest proof quality, while the remaining coins are produced in high uncirculated quality. The two-ounce silver coin stands out with partial gilding and a ruthenium coating, adding further artistic detail to the design.

Symbolism in design

The conceptual design was created by artist Nikola Vudrag, who paired the portrait of Queen Jelena with the Velebit degenia, a rare plant that grows from the rocky terrain of the Velebit mountains.

(Photo: Branimir Kralj)

The flower symbolises resilience and endurance, reflecting both the harsh natural conditions in which it survives and the strength of Croatia’s historical heritage, which stretches back more than a thousand years.

The edition is completed with specially designed packaging created by designer Izvorka Jurić of Dig Studio. Particular attention was given to presentation, with the most valuable coins placed in luxury boxes, while the remaining coins come in elegantly designed packaging with a matching sleeve.