The Hungarian National Bank (Magyar Nemzeti Bank, MNB) has issued two new commemorative coins to mark the 125th anniversary of the founding of the Hungarian Football Federation (Magyar Labdarúgó Szövetség, MLSZ). The special HUF 5,000 and HUF 25,000 coins feature iconic symbols of Hungarian football, including the Puskás Aréna, the Hungarian Cup trophy and a classic lace-up football.
Special commemorative coins released for the MLSZ anniversary
According to the latest issue of the Hungarian Gazette, the Hungarian National Bank released two commemorative coins on 9 May to honour the 125th anniversary of the Hungarian Football Federation. One is a silver commemorative coin with a face value of HUF 25,000 (EUR 71), while the other is a non-ferrous metal version worth HUF 5,000 (EUR 14).
The central bank stressed that the primary purpose of these coins is not circulation, but rather to preserve historical and cultural values and commemorate a significant milestone in Hungarian football history.
A tribute to the history of Hungarian football
The Hungarian Football Federation was founded in Budapest in 1901, making it one of the first independent football associations established in Europe. Hungarian football developed rapidly, with the country’s first official national team match taking place as early as 1902.
The most celebrated era in the federation’s history was the age of the legendary Golden Team in the 1950s. However, Hungarian football has also experienced a resurgence in recent years, reflected in the national team’s European Championship appearances and major infrastructure developments, according to the federation’s statement.
Puskás Arena and the Hungarian Cup featured on the coins
The obverse side of the commemorative coins depicts the Hungarian Cup trophy, with part of the Puskás Arena in the background. The inscription “MAGYARORSZÁG” appears along the upper edge, while the denomination and the word “FORINT” are placed beside the trophy.
The reverse side is dominated by a classic lace-up football similar to those used nearly a century ago, featuring the federation’s anniversary logo. The designs were created by industrial artist Andrea Horváth.
The commemorative coins marking the 125th anniversary of the Hungarian Football Federation. Photo: Magyar Pénzverő Zrt.
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Limited edition release
The HUF 25,000 commemorative coin is made of 92.5% silver, weighs 31.46 grams and has a diameter of 38.61 millimetres. A maximum of 4,000 pieces of the silver version will be produced in polished proof quality.
The HUF 5,000 coin is made from an alloy containing 75% copper and 25% nickel, with a total weight of 30.8 grams. A total of 5,000 pieces will be minted.
Where can they be purchased?
The commemorative coins are available at the Budapest coin shop and the online store of Magyar Pénzverő Zrt. The silver version can be purchased at market price following its release, while the HUF 5,000 non-ferrous coin will be available at face value for one year, subject to stock availability.
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Featured image: illustration. Photo: depositphotos.com
