site.btaPM Zhelyazkov: Bulgarian Euro Coins Ready for Circulation Across Europe, Showcase National Symbols

Bulgarian euro coins will be legal tender across Europe and will carry national symbols, making Bulgaria part of the European cultural and monetary heritage, Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said on Saturday. He visited the Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) Mint together with BNB Governor Dimitar Radev to observe the production of the first Bulgarian euro coins.

The Prime Minister noted that all euro coins have a common face for Europe, while the reverse side features national symbols unique to each eurozone country. Bulgaria’s series includes established national symbols, historical personalities, and cultural heritage sites. The EUR 2 coin depicts Saint  Paisius of Hilendar, a Bulgarian monk, clergyman, and enlightener, author of the Revival work Istoriya Slavyanobolgarskaya (Slavic-Bulgarian history). The right-hand side of the coin bears the inscription “BULGARIA” in Cyrillic, while to the left are the words “EURO” and the year of issue “2025.” The edge of the coin is inscribed with the motto “GOD SAVE BULGARIA” on one half, repeated in reverse on the other half.

The EUR 1 coin features Saint Ivan Rilski, a spiritual leader, hermit, and miracle worker considered the heavenly protector of the Bulgarian people. The 50-, 20-, 10-, 5-, and 2-cent coins depict the Madara Rider, an 8th-century rock relief included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Zhelyazkov confirmed that the BNB Mint operates at an extremely high level with a 24-hour production process, ensuring both quality and sufficient quantities of coins. “We are fully ready. Bulgarian euro coins can be used for payments throughout Europe, while European euros can be used in Bulgaria. This is an important step toward the country’s successful economic and social development,” the Prime Minister said.

BNB Governor added that preparations for the euro adoption in the banking sector and at the Mint are proceeding according to plan. “The Mint operates at full capacity, with sufficient quantities of euro coins available, both in the initial issuance and subsequently. There is no reason for concern,” he said.