The commemorative coin conveys the idea of the issue through symbols, relief and expressive composition, which is pleasant to look at. The plot and details of the design emphasize the theme: dedicated to the generation of Ukrainian artists of the 1920s–1930s, which became the engine of cultural change, developing literature, theater, cinema, music and fine arts, but was ruthlessly destroyed by the totalitarian regime.
The obverse side is built as a holistic scenography, where state symbols are combined with images of the issue theme. The tragedy of the historical era is emphasized by the shot letter “O”, from which blood flows, reminding of the painful wound in the history of Ukraine and the unfulfilled dreams of talented artists. On the obverse of the coin there is a noticeably stylized inscription SLOVO – the name of the Kharkiv house of writers of the 30s of the 20th century. Under the text composition there is the inscription UKRAINE, the year of minting – 20 / 25, the small State Emblem of Ukraine, the denomination 5 with the graphic symbol of the hryvnia and the sign of the Banknote and Mint of the National Bank of Ukraine. In the texture of the letters, the sprouts of winter wheat can be seen – the image of the young generation of artists, whose life and work were cynically broken by the totalitarian authorities. The careful relief and balance of the fields add to the product a collector's expressiveness. The state emblem in the composition sets the official tone and balances the decorative elements. The trademark of the NBU 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 stylized portrait of Julian Shpol on a mirror surface, battered by spots of corrosion, oblivion, but not completely lost. On the left side, the years of the artist's life are indicated - 1895 / 1937. On the right side of the portrait, vertically arranged inscriptions are: MYKHAYLO / YALOVY - the artist's real name, engraved in relief, and JULIAN / SHPOL - a pseudonym, made in mirror. The careful relief and balance of the fields add to the product a collector's expressiveness. The texture of the field shows noticeable relief transitions: from thin strokes to deeper areas that catch the light beautifully when the coin is turned.
Historical context
The plot of the coin is tied to an event or image that is important for Ukrainian memory. Such issues become small "time capsules": they preserve the emotion of the moment, a cultural sign, and recognizable symbolism for 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.