Obverse. Photo © Zomi Numizmatika
  • 10 000 Forint 1993, KM# 703, Hungary, 100th Anniversary of Death of Ferenc Erkel
  • 10 000 Forint 1993, KM# 703, Hungary, 100th Anniversary of Death of Ferenc Erkel
Description

Ferenc Erkel (1810–1893) was a Hungarian composer, conductor, and pianist renowned as the "father of Hungarian grand opera." His most notable achievements lie in his significant impact on Hungarian music, particularly through his operas. Among his works, "Bánk Bán" stands out as a cornerstone of Hungarian national opera, premiering in 1861 and marking the zenith of his career.

Erkel's influence extended beyond composition. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Music Academy in 1875, where he served as director and piano teacher for a decade. Furthermore, in 1884, he assumed the position of chief musical director at the newly inaugurated opera house.

Throughout the 19th century, Erkel's contributions to Hungarian national identity through music were profound. As the conductor of the Hungarian National Theatre, now the Hungarian State Opera House, he left an indelible mark on Hungarian musical life.

Beyond opera, Erkel composed numerous choral works, orchestral pieces, and songs, enriching Hungary's cultural landscape. His legacy endures in Hungary, with his operas still performed regularly both domestically and abroad.

Engraver: László Kutas

Obverse

Depicts the bust of the composer at its center. On the right side, below the birth and death years, the designer's surname is visible, while Ferenc Erkel's name is curved on the left side.

ERKEL FERENC 1810-1893
KUTAS

Reverse

Depicts at the center horizontally the denomination, below which the inscription "FORINT" and the year of minting, along with the designer's surname, are visible. Above the denomination is the signature of Ferenc Erkel, with the mintmark (BP) positioned above it. The curved country name (Hungarian Republic) is placed at the top and bottom of the coin.

MAGYAR
BP.
Erkel Ferenc
10000
FORINT
1993
KUTAS
KÖZTÁRSASÁG

Edge

10 000 Forint

Third Republic

100th Anniversary of Death of Ferenc Erkel

KM# 703 Schön# 206 Adamo# EM128
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Gold
Fineness 0.986
Weight 6.982 g
Diameter 22 mm
Thickness 1.1 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Budapest Mint (BP)

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