Obverse. Photo © Monetnik.ru
  • 1000 Forint 2009, KM# 813, Hungary, Hungarian Explorers and Their Inventions, Water Turbine by Donát Bánki
  • 1000 Forint 2009, KM# 813, Hungary, Hungarian Explorers and Their Inventions, Water Turbine by Donát Bánki
Description

Donát Bánki (1859-1922) was a Hungarian engineer and inventor, renowned for his collaboration with János Csonka in revolutionizing the automotive industry with the development of the carburetor for stationary engines.

Bánki left an indelible mark on various engineering domains, contributing significantly to the advancement of steam turbines, refrigeration technology, and agricultural machinery. A prolific inventor with numerous patents, his creations left a lasting imprint on Hungary's industrial and technological sectors and beyond.

Among his notable achievements is the co-invention, with János Csonka, of the Bánki–Csonka water turbine. This innovative turbine efficiently harnessed water flow to produce mechanical energy for milling, pumping, and electricity generation. Its simplicity and efficacy made it ideal for diverse applications, particularly in regions abundant with water resources, catalyzing the progress of hydroelectric power and facilitating the electrification of many areas.

Bánki's engineering breakthroughs played a pivotal role in modernizing industries and enhancing living standards by providing access to sustainable and reliable energy sources.

Engraver: Balázs Bitó

Obverse

Depicts the portrait of Donát Bánki. Above the portrait, the inscription "BÁNKI DONÁT" is visible. To the right, in horizontal rows beneath each other, the birth and death years "1859-1922," the inscriptions "THE BÁNKI-TYPE", "WATER TURBINE", and "INVENTOR" can be read. In the bottom right corner, the engraver's privy mark is located.

BÁNKI DONÁT
1859-1922
A BÁNKI-FÉLE
VÍZTURBINA
FELTALÁLÓJA

Reverse

Depicts the crossflow turbine. Positioned horizontally below the turbine depiction are the words "HUNGARIAN" and "REPUBLIC," with the denomination and the word "FORINT" appearing above them. Adjacent to the central design, aligned with the left edge, is the year of minting "2009," while the mint mark "BP." is situated parallel to the right edge.

The cross-flow turbine, also known as the Bánki-Michell turbine or Ossberger turbine, emerged from collaboration among Australian Anthony Michell, Hungarian Donát Bánki, and German Fritz Ossberger. Michell patented his turbine design in 1903, manufactured by Weymouth for many years, while Ossberger secured patents in 1933 and established his eponymous company as a leading manufacturer. Unlike conventional water turbines, the cross-flow turbine directs water across its blades, enhancing efficiency and self-cleaning. Ideal for low-head, high-flow locations, it features a low-speed design and often incorporates two nozzles to prevent flow interference. These turbines are commonly built with dual capacities, sharing a shaft but varying in wheel length to accommodate different volumes under the same pressure. Flexible operation and low maintenance costs characterize their construction, making them a practical choice for various hydroelectric applications.

1000 FORINT
2009 BP
MAGYAR
KÖZTÁRSASÁG

Edge

1000 Forint

Third Republic
KM# 813 Adamo# EM221
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Copper Nickel
Weight 14 g
Diameter -
Width 28 mm
Height 28 mm
Thickness 2.1 mm
Shape square
Alignment Medal
Mint
Budapest Mint (BP)

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