The coin reminds of the ability of nature to be reborn and of the fragile beauty that is important to protect. The plot and details of the design emphasize the theme: “Chernobyl, Renaissance, European Elk” is dedicated to the largest representative of the deer family in Ukraine – the European elk (alces alces).
Obverse
On the obverse, the composition is readable at first glance: the official attributes of the state and the details of the plot work as a single whole. The year of minting is 2025 (bottom), the mark of the Banknote and Mint of the National Bank of Ukraine (top). The obverse of the coin features: the small State Emblem of Ukraine (top), the inscriptions: UKRAINE (under the emblem), the denomination of the coin – 5 / HRYVENE (to the right of the emblem). In the center is a symbolic wheel of life, marking the revival of nature: a stylized international sign “Radiation Threat”, wrapped in leaves, around which are animals whose populations develop in the 30-kilometer exclusion zone, which has become a kind of reserve for reproduction, in particular, black storks, Przewalski's horse, lynx, bison, elk, brown bear. In a circle, on a mirror surface, the inscriptions: CHORNOBYL RADIATION AND ECOLOGICAL BIOSPHERE RESERVE (on the left side). The natural motif is written softly and carefully: small details create a feeling of living touch to the landscape. The state emblem in the composition sets the official tone and balances the decorative elements. The trademark of the NBU Banknote and Mint emphasizes the official origin of the issue.
Reverse
The reverse is dominated by a thematic motif, complemented by inscriptions and details that emphasize the idea of the issue. The reverse of the coin shows a European elk against a landscape background (decorative element – pad printing), above which on a mirror surface are the inscriptions: ЛОСЬ / ЕВРОПЕЙСКИЙ / ALCES ALCES. In the upper part – a moose with a calf. The natural motif is written softly and carefully: small details create a feeling of living touch to the landscape. In the texture of the field, relief transitions are noticeable: from thin strokes to deeper areas that beautifully catch the light when the coin is turned.
Historical context
The coin draws attention to the natural symbols of Ukraine and the importance of biodiversity protection. The theme of rebirth and caring for the environment sounds here as a gentle reminder of responsibility to future generations. It will be an appropriate gift and a warm accent to the collection. It fits well with the collection and looks festive in the case.