This commemorative coin conveys the idea of the issue through symbols, relief and an expressive composition that is a pleasure to examine. The subject and design details underscore the theme: dedicated to the folk tale — a genre of Ukrainian folklore that, through captivating stories, carries us into a world of adventure and passes down the wisdom of generations. One of the most popular is the tale of Kyrylo Kozhumyaka — a craftsman who, thanks to his extraordinary strength, defeated a dragon, the traditional symbol of evil in Ukrainian folklore, and saved the city and the princess from captivity.
Obverse
The obverse is built as a coherent stage design, where state emblems are combined with imagery of the issue’s theme. It depicts three narrative scenes, separated by stylized hemp ropes, illustrating key episodes of the tale: Kyrylo Kozhumyaka’s craft, the children’s plea for help, and the princess’s captivity by the dragon. At the top are the logo of the Banknote and Coin Mint of the National Bank of Ukraine, the inscription UKRAINE and the Small State Coat of Arms of Ukraine; at the lower right are the year of minting 2026, the denomination 5 with the graphic hryvnia symbol, and the inscription KYRYLO / KOZHUMYAKA. Careful relief and balanced fields lend the piece collector-grade expressiveness. The state emblem sets an official tone within the composition and balances the decorative elements.
Reverse
The reverse reveals the main image of the issue in expressive relief and a dynamic composition. It depicts the climactic scene of the tale — the heroic duel of Kyrylo Kozhumyaka with the dragon, embodying the stand of human strength, will and justice against destructive evil. Careful relief and balanced fields lend the piece collector-grade expressiveness. In the texture of the field, relief transitions are visible: from fine strokes to deeper plateaus that beautifully catch the light as the coin is turned.
Historical context
The coin’s subject is tied to an image important to Ukrainian cultural memory. The tale of Kyrylo Kozhumyaka is among the oldest stories of Ukrainian folklore and echoes the chronicle legends of the dragon-slayers of Kyivan Rus. Generation after generation of Ukrainians has grown up on this story, which continues to remind us that true strength lies not only in might but in the readiness to protect others. Such issues become little "time capsules": they preserve the emotion of the moment, a cultural marker and recognizable symbolism for future generations. A fitting gift and a warm accent for any collection. It fits a collection well and looks festive in a case.