Hungary 50 Forint 2004

History

50 Forint 2004, KM# 773, Hungary, Hungarian Membership of the European Union

50 Forint 2004, KM# 773, Hungary, Hungarian Membership of the European Union, A first-day mint package

Obverse. Photo © Monetnik.ru

Description

Hungary's integration into the European Union marks a pivotal move toward political, economic, and cultural unity for the nation. Prior to joining the EU, Hungary had set European integration as a long-term objective, pledging allegiance to European values and standards.

The process leading to Hungary's EU membership commenced in the early 1990s after the collapse of communism in Central and Eastern Europe. The country underwent substantial political, economic, and social transformations to meet EU criteria.

EU accession yielded various advantages for Hungary, including expanded trade prospects, access to EU funding for infrastructure and development initiatives, and participation in EU decision-making. Furthermore, it underscored Hungary's adherence to democratic principles, the rule of law, and human rights, all fundamental EU values.

Hungary's entry into the European Union marked a significant milestone in its post-communist evolution and its integration into the broader European community.

Obverse	Coat of arms Hungary Crown, jewelry Holy Crown of Hungary Symbol, amulet, talisman Two-barred cross Depicts the coat of arms of the Republic of Hungary. Below it, the year of minting is positioned within a wreath of twelve stars representing the European Union, surrounded by the inscription "HUNGARIAN REPUBLIC MEMBER OF THE EUROPEAN UNION." The Hungarian coat of arms, adopted in 1919 and reaffirmed on July 3, 1990, features a vertically divided shield with a rounded base. The left field displays eight red and silver horizontal bars, symbolizing the Árpád dynasty, while the right field depicts three green hills with a golden crown on the center hill and a silver patriarchal cross emerging from it. These elements represent the Danube, Tisza, Dráva, and Száva rivers, and the Tátra, Mátra, and Fátra mountain ranges. Atop the shield rests the Holy Crown of Hungary, also known as the Crown of Saint Stephen, which has been used for coronations since the 12th century. The crown's cross was tilted in the 17th century due to damage, and it has remained in this position since then, symbolizing the enduring history and legitimacy of Hungarian monarchs. Engraver: István Bartos MAGYAR KÖZTARSASAG AZ EURÓPAI UNIÓ TAGJA 2004
Reverse	Depicts within the pearl-bordered, the denomination composed of slightly overlapping digits. Below the denomination, decorative lines are found on the left and right sides. Beneath the denomination, inscriptions and the mintmark are arranged horizontally in two rows. Engraver: István Kósa 50 FORINT BP.
Edge	Plain