Obverse. Photo © Magyar Nemzeti Bank
  • 2000 Forint 2014, KM# 864, Hungary, Hungarian Explorers and Their Inventions, Ganz Works by Ábrahám Ganz
  • 2000 Forint 2014, KM# 864, Hungary, Hungarian Explorers and Their Inventions, Ganz Works by Ábrahám Ganz
Description

Ábrahám Ganz (1814-1867) was a Swiss-born master foundryman, industrialist, and pivotal figure in the establishment of Hungarian heavy industry. He was honored with the Order of the Golden Crown and granted honorary citizenship in Buda.

Throughout his career, Ganz exemplified an entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to innovation. His efforts were focused on modernizing Hungary's industrial landscape, particularly in machinery and electrical engineering. Among his significant achievements was the introduction of steam engines and steam-powered machinery, transforming Hungary's industrial capabilities.

In the late 19th century, Ganz foresaw the potential of electricity and directed investments towards electrical engineering. Under his guidance, the Ganz Works emerged as a premier manufacturer of electrical equipment, including generators, transformers, and electric motors.

Ganz's influence extended beyond machinery; he played a pivotal role in advancing electric transportation. The Ganz Works produced some of the world's earliest electric tramcars and locomotives, contributing to the electrification of urban transport systems.

Engraver: Balázs Bitó

Obverse

Depicts the bust of Ábrahám Ganz wearing the Golden Cross of Merit with the Crown. On the right edge, the engraver's privy mark is placed. Above, in two horizontal rows below each other, "GANZ" and "ÁBRAHÁM" are inscribed, while below, parallel to the rim, the birth and death years "1814-1867" are readable.

The Cross of Merit was a military and civilian honor of Austria-Hungary established on February 16, 1850, by Emperor Franz Josef. It was awarded for loyal service to the Emperor and the nation, distinguished public service, or other significant contributions to the common good. The Cross of Merit had four classes.

GANZ
ÁBRAHÁM
1814-1867

Reverse

Depicts the former foundry building established by Ábrahám Ganz, with a railway wheel produced using his patented shell casting technology in the foreground. The inscription "FOUNDED: 1844" is located on the facade under the chimneys of the building. Along the upper edge, the word "HUNGARY" is inscribed, while below, parallel to the rim, the year of issue "2014" and the mint mark "BP." are visible. To the right of the wheel, the denomination and the inscription "FORINT" are displayed in two horizontal rows below each other.

MAGYARORSZÁG
ALAPÍTVA: 1844
2000
FORINT
2014 BP.

Edge

2000 Forint

KM# 864 Adamo# EM282
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Copper Nickel
Weight 14 g
Diameter -
Width 28.4 mm
Height 28.4 mm
Thickness 2.2 mm
Shape square
Alignment Medal
Mint
Budapest Mint (BP)

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