New coin honours iconic inventor Slavoljub Penkala

by croatiaweek
July 2, 2025
in Entertainment

(Photo credit: Branimir Kralj)

The Croatian National Bank, in collaboration with the Croatian Mint, is launching a new commemorative coin dedicated to one of the most significant figures in the history of Croatian science, technology and industry – Slavoljub Penkala.

The coin, titled Innovations of Slavoljub Penkala, will be available for purchase from 10 July 2025.

This release marks the third edition in the Croatian Innovators coin series, which honours local visionaries whose inventions have helped shape the modern world.

Though best known for inventing the mechanical pencil, Slavoljub Penkala was far more than a single invention.

Born in Slovakia and professionally rooted in Zagreb, Penkala was a symbol of the early 20th century spirit of innovation.

Over the course of his career, he filed more than 80 patents. These included the fountain pen with an integrated ink reservoir, the first Croatian aeroplane, cleaning agents, a hot water bottle, a rotating toothbrush and many other practical inventions that transformed everyday life.

His work combined science, entrepreneurship and creativity. Penkala’s contribution to the technical culture of Croatia and beyond is immeasurable.

The coin was designed by contemporary Italian artist Ilaria Longo. The front of the coin features a portrait of Slavoljub Penkala with a serious yet inspiring expression, capturing his deep dedication to scientific progress.

(Photo credit: Branimir Kralj)

The reverse side highlights his most iconic invention – the mechanical pencil, known locally as the penkala.

(Photo credit: Branimir Kralj)

Crafted in both gold and silver, the Innovations of Slavoljub Penkala coin is a tribute to a visionary whose legacy continues to influence both past and future generations. He remains a symbol of the relentless pursuit of smarter, simpler and better solutions.