the 2014 Croatian 20 Kuna banknote issued to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Croatian National Bank
When Croatia gained independence, it introduced its own currency, the kuna, in 1994. Over the next twenty years, the Croatian National Bank worked to maintain the stability of the kuna and the country’s monetary system. By 2014, the institution celebrated its 20th anniversary, marking the occasion with a commemorative 20 Kuna note. While the overall layout is similar to the standard-issue 20 Kuna banknote, this commemorative edition bears unique markings and dates that reference the anniversary.
2. Overview of the Front (Obverse)
The obverse of the 2014 commemorative 20 Kuna note prominently features a portrait of Ban Josip Jelačić (1801–1859). Ban Jelačić was a significant figure in Croatian history, recognized for his role in national reforms and his efforts to advance Croatian autonomy within the Habsburg Monarchy. His portrait appears on the right side of the note, depicted in meticulous intaglio (raised) printing that captures the details of his facial expression, attire, and hairstyle.
Key elements on the obverse include:
- Portrait of Ban Josip Jelačić: Centered toward the right, rendered with fine lines and shading.
- Denomination: The number “20” is printed in large, bold font on the left, near the vertical text that reads “HRVATSKA NARODNA BANKA” (Croatian National Bank).
- Anniversary Inscription/Overprint: A special reference to the 20th anniversary of the Croatian National Bank is typically located near the center or in a blank space, along with the date “30. svibnja 2014.” (May 30, 2014).
- Governor’s Signature: The note bears the signature of the then-Governor of the Croatian National Bank, placed near the date.
- Serial Number: Printed twice, usually in contrasting inks—one in the upper left and another in the lower right area.
Throughout the obverse, one may notice intricate geometric patterns and microtext, which serve both aesthetic and security purposes. The repeated use of Croatian motifs and the national coat of arms helps tie the design to the country’s identity.
3. Overview of the Back (Reverse)
On the reverse side, the main focal point is the Eltz Manor in Vukovar, an 18th-century Baroque palace that stands as a symbol of the region’s cultural and historical heritage. The manor’s façade is depicted in a detailed illustration that highlights its architectural features, including the arched windows, stately columns, and the roofline.
Beneath or alongside the depiction of Eltz Manor, there is an image of the Vučedol Dove (Vučedolska golubica)—a famous archaeological artifact discovered near Vukovar, dating back to the Eneolithic period. This stylized ceramic figure is considered a cultural icon and a testament to Croatia’s ancient past.
Other elements on the reverse include:
- Denomination Indicators: The numeric “20” and the words “DVADESET KUNA” appear in prominent spots, often in different fonts or colors for visual balance.
- Microprinting: In the background patterns or near the borders, you may find tiny text that is only visible under magnification.
- Year and Commemorative Text: The date “Zagreb, 30. svibnja 2014.” reaffirms the note’s celebratory purpose for the Croatian National Bank’s 20th anniversary.
4. Color Scheme
The 20 Kuna commemorative banknote predominantly features a pink, magenta, and light orange palette, with subtle variations to enhance depth and security. The following hues are generally visible:
- Pink/Magenta Base: Most of the note’s background and portrait area display pinkish to magenta tones, giving the note a distinctly warm appearance.
- Yellow-Orange Accents: Certain parts of the patterns, particularly around the numeric “20” and the decorative borders, incorporate yellow or orange highlights for contrast.
- Gray/Black Shading: The portrait of Ban Jelačić and the fine details of Eltz Manor rely on gray and black lines to convey depth.
This color arrangement not only provides aesthetic appeal but also functions as a layer of anti-counterfeiting protection, as it can be challenging to replicate these exact tones.
5. Dimensions
Like most Croatian banknotes from this period, the 2014 commemorative 20 Kuna note maintains standard dimensions to facilitate ease of use. Typically, it measures approximately 132 mm in width and 67 mm in height. This uniform sizing allows for consistent handling by ATMs, vending machines, and banknote counters.
6. Security Features
Ensuring the banknote’s integrity was a priority for the Croatian National Bank. The 20 Kuna commemorative note includes several sophisticated security features:
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Watermark: When held up to a light source, a faint, translucent image of Ban Josip Jelačić’s portrait becomes visible. This watermark should match the main portrait on the obverse and exhibit gradations of light and dark areas.
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Security Thread: A narrow, embedded thread runs vertically through the note. Under certain angles or light conditions, it appears as a continuous line or as metallic segments. In some instances, text (such as “HNB”) can be read on the thread.
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Raised (Intaglio) Printing: The portrait of Ban Jelačić and some textual elements, like the denomination, are printed with raised ink. Rubbing your fingertip gently across these areas should reveal a tactile feel.
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Microprinting: Tiny text is woven into the background designs, the borders, and around the architectural image of Eltz Manor. Microprinting is an effective deterrent against basic counterfeiting methods.
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See-Through Register: Certain shapes or design fragments on the front align perfectly with corresponding elements on the back when the note is held to the light, forming a complete image or pattern.
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UV Fluorescent Elements: Under ultraviolet light, specific fibers and patterns embedded in the paper fluoresce in bright colors. This feature is one of the quickest ways for bank employees and retailers to authenticate the note.
7. Circulation and Collectibility
Although introduced as a commemorative issue, the 2014 20 Kuna banknote was fully legal tender and circulated alongside the standard notes. However, it was printed in more limited quantities, thus making it of particular interest to collectors. Over time, many of these commemorative notes have either worn out through normal circulation or been set aside by numismatists.
Factors affecting its collectibility include:
- Condition: Pristine, uncirculated notes (known as UNC in numismatic terms) are more valuable. Even minor creases or stains can reduce a note’s worth.
- Serial Number: Collectors often seek out unique or “fancy” serial numbers, such as those with repeating digits or especially low sequences.
- Historical and Commemorative Appeal: As the 20th anniversary issue, this note represents a key milestone in Croatia’s modern monetary history, which adds to its desirability.
Croatia adopted the euro as its official currency on January 1, 2023, meaning the kuna is no longer issued. Nonetheless, commemorative kuna banknotes remain important artifacts that reflect Croatia’s transition and economic narrative. Many collectors and enthusiasts regard them as tangible pieces of the country’s past.