Obverse. Photo © Magyar Nemzeti Bank
  • 15 000 Forint 2024, Hungary, 150th Anniversary of the Hungarian Civil Notary Public System
  • 15 000 Forint 2024, Hungary, 150th Anniversary of the Hungarian Civil Notary Public System
Description

The Hungarian Civil Notary Public System, established in 1874, is a cornerstone of the country’s legal framework, ensuring the authenticity and enforceability of legal documents and transactions. Civil notaries in Hungary act as impartial professionals authorized by the state to prevent disputes by certifying agreements, wills, contracts, and other vital documents. They oversee the execution of legal acts, provide advice within their jurisdiction, and maintain public records. Emphasizing trust, neutrality, and legal certainty, the system plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens’ rights in private and commercial matters.

On December 12, 2024, the Hungarian National Bank will commemorate the 150th anniversary of the system's establishment by issuing two special coins: a 15,000 HUF silver coin and a 3,000 HUF base-metal version. This anniversary celebrates the system's enduring contributions to Hungary’s legal and social stability. Despite changes over the years, such as state control in 1949 and its reestablishment as a chamber-governed body after the regime change, the system continues to adapt, embracing modern developments like digitalization. Recognized for their expertise and adherence to high ethical standards, Hungarian notaries remain integral to fostering trust, impartiality, and legal security in society.

Engraver: Balázs Pelcz

Obverse

Depicts the notarial coat of arms encased within a wax seal. This design is inspired by the archaizing, corded seal that symbolizes notarial certification. Above the central motif, the inscription "150 YEARS OF THE HUNGARIAN CIVIL NOTARY PUBLIC SYSTEM" is displayed in a semicircular arrangement. At the bottom, the inscription "MAGYARORSZÁG" (Hungary) in a semicircular form, followed by the denomination. On the left side, between the two cords of the wax seal, is the mint mark "BP." indicating the place of issue, and on the right side, beneath the wax seal’s cord, is the year of minting "2024."

150 ÉVES A MAGYAR POLGÁRI KÖZJEGYZŐSÉG
BP. 2024
MAGYARORSZÁG • 15000 FORINT

Reverse

Depicts a portrait of Bálint Ökröss, based on a photograph, accompanied by the signature of the academic jurist. Above the portrait, in a semicircular arrangement, is the inscription "PREPARER OF THE 1874 ACT XXXV ON ROYAL NOTARIES." To the left of the portrait are the engraver's initials.

Bálint Ökröss (1829–1889) was a distinguished Hungarian legal scholar, judge, and public notary who made significant contributions to the development of Hungary's Civil Notary Public System. Born in Debrecen, Ökröss served as a soldier during the Hungarian Revolution of 1848 before pursuing a legal career. He held various judicial and notary positions in Szentes, Szolnok, and Budapest, ultimately playing a key role in drafting the 1874 Act XXXV on Royal Notaries, which laid the foundation for the modern notarial system in Hungary. A member of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and founder of the influential legal journal Jogtudományi Közlöny, Ökröss also authored several essential legal texts. His legacy continues to be honored today, including through the Ökröss Bálint Award, established in 2007 to recognize outstanding contributions to the notary profession.

• A KIRÁLYI KÖZJEGYZŐKRŐL SZÓLÓ 1874. ÉVI XXXV. TC.
ELŐKÉSZÍTŐJE •
PB

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.925
Weight 31.46 g
Diameter 38.61 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Budapest Mint (BP)

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