Kyrgyzstan issues 1,000 gold commemorative coins for 35th independence anniversary

Kyrgyzstan's National Bank is set to release a limited edition gold collector coin on August 3, in anticipation of the nation's 35th independence anniversary on August 31. Titled "35 Years of the Independent Kyrgyz Republic," this coin is part of the bank's "Historical Events" series and will serve as official currency within Kyrgyzstan. A total of 1,000 of these commemorative coins will be minted.

The coin's front side features a snow leopard, a national emblem symbolizing Kyrgyzstan's strength, grandeur, and natural resources, moving forward against the backdrop of the Kyrgyz national flag. The phrase "Эгемен Кыргыз Республикасы" ("Independent Kyrgyz Republic") encircles the edge, while the bottom displays the coin's face value of KGS 100 ($1.14) and "35 жыл" ("35 years").

The back of the coin showcases the number 35, which incorporates Kyrgyzstan's national emblem and is surrounded by geometric patterns inspired by *kurak*, a traditional Kyrgyz patchwork art. The National Bank states that this design reflects the country's diverse cultural heritage. Also inscribed on the reverse are "Кыргыз Республикасынын Улуттук банкы" ("National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic"), the year 2026, the gold purity (Au 999), and the coin's weight of 7.78 grams.

Crafted from 99.9% pure gold, each coin has a diameter of 22 millimeters and was produced using proof-quality minting. Every coin will be presented in an acrylic capsule, housed in an individual display case, and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

The National Bank will sell these coins for KGS 99,460 ($1,137) at the cash offices of its central headquarters and regional branches during working hours, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays.

Kyrgyzstan's Independence Day, celebrated on August 31, marks the country's declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, signifying national sovereignty, freedom, and unity.

In a related development, President Sadyr Japarov previously announced that Kyrgyzstan has begun domestic production of its national currency, the som, for the first time. Historically, the country relied on foreign companies like De La Rue and Oberthur Fiduciaire for banknote production. Japarov noted that Kyrgyzstan now possesses the capability to print its own currency and could potentially offer secure printing services to other nations. The country has also achieved international certification for compliance with global security standards and now produces ID cards, driver's licenses, and other official documents domestically.