Obverse. Photo © Hungarian Mint
  • 10 000 Forint 2016, KM# 909, Hungary, 5th Anniversary of the New Hungarian Constitution
  • 10 000 Forint 2016, KM# 909, Hungary, 5th Anniversary of the New Hungarian Constitution
Description

The Fundamental Law of Hungary (Hungarian: Magyarország alaptörvénye), the nation's constitution, was adopted by parliament on April 18, 2011, promulgated by the president a week later, and came into force on January 1, 2012. It is Hungary's first constitution established within a democratic framework following free elections.

This document replaced the 1949 Constitution, which was initially adopted upon the creation of the Hungarian People's Republic on August 20, 1949, and extensively amended on October 23, 1989. The 1949 Constitution was Hungary's first permanent written constitution. Until the Fundamental Law was introduced, Hungary was the only former Eastern Bloc country without a completely new constitution post-communism.

The 2011 constitution has sparked controversy both domestically and internationally. Critics argue that it was adopted without sufficient input from the opposition and broader society, that it reflects the ruling Fidesz party's ideology and entrenches its power, and that it is based on a conservative Christian worldview despite Hungary's secular nature. They also claim it restricts and politicizes previously independent institutions. The government, however, maintains that the constitution was lawfully enacted and represents the popular will.

Engraver: László Szlávics Jr.

Obverse

Depicts the interior detail of the dome hall of the Hungarian Parliament. Around the edge, the upper legend reads "GOD, BLESS THE HUNGARIAN!", and the lower legend reads "FOR THE 5th ANNIVERSARY OF THE FUNDAMENTAL LAW". The two inscriptions are separated by decorative motifs, the engraver's privy mark located on the left side.

ISTEN, ÁLDD MEG A MAGYART!
AZ ALAPTÖRVÉNY 5. ÉVFORDULÓJÁRA

Reverse

Depicts an open book symbolizing the ceremonial promulgation of the Fundamental Law of Hungary. Above it, in two horizontal rows, the denomination and the inscription "forint" are visible. Below, in two horizontal rows, the issuance year "2016" and the mint mark "BP" are placed. Microtext is located within the mint mark, visible under at least tenfold magnification. Around the edge, the upper legend reads "HUNGARY", below which decorative motifs are visible in an arc.

MAGYARORSZÁG
10000
FORINT
2016
BP.

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.925
Weight 24 g
Diameter 37 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Budapest Mint (BP)

Related coins

5th Anniversary of the New Hungarian Constitution

Copper Nickel, 23.7 g, ⌀ 37 mm