1993 Slovakia 20 Korun – A Transitional Provisional Banknote
Discover the 1993 Slovakia 20 Korun banknote (P-15), a unique provisional issue marking Slovakia’s transition to an independent currency following the dissolution of Czechoslovakia.
Historical Context
Issued by the National Bank of Slovakia (Národná banka Slovenska), this 20 Korun note was part of the provisional banknote series, created as an interim solution after Slovakia became independent on January 1, 1993. Instead of printing entirely new banknotes, Slovakia repurposed existing Czechoslovak 20 Korun notes (P-95) by applying a green overprint featuring the Slovak national shield and the denomination.
This approach ensured a smooth transition while Slovakia prepared to introduce fully redesigned banknotes. The Slovak Koruna (SKK) remained in circulation until 2009, when Slovakia adopted the Euro (EUR).
Key Features & Specifications
Pick Number: P-15
Denomination: 20 Slovak Korun
Material: Paper
Issuing Authority: National Bank of Slovakia
Size: 137 × 67 mm
Printer: Státní Tiskárna Cenin, Prague (original Czechoslovak issue)
Watermark: None (original Czechoslovak design)
Security Thread: None
Demonetized: Withdrawn from circulation
Design Elements
Front: Features Jan Ámos Komenský, a Czech philosopher and educator, retained from the original Czechoslovak design. The green Slovak overprint includes the Slovak national shield and the denomination "20".
Back: Displays the Glagolitic alphabet at left, the Tree of Life growing from an open book in the center, and a young couple at right, symbolizing education and cultural heritage.
Lettering on the Note
The front of the note includes the original Czechoslovak text: "Bankovka Státní Banky Československé – Dvacet Korun Československých" (State Bank of Czechoslovakia – Twenty Czechoslovak Koruna)
Additionally, the Slovak overprint features:
"Slovenská Republika" (Slovak Republic)
Denomination ("20") in green print
Security Features
Basic printing techniques due to its provisional nature
UV-sensitive Elements: Certain sections glow under ultraviolet light
Collector’s & Gift Appeal
This 20 Korun banknote holds significant historical and artistic value, making it a sought-after item for collectors and a unique keepsake. It’s a perfect gift for: ✨ Slovak history enthusiasts – A tribute to Slovakia’s transition to independence. ✨ Individuals born in 1993 – A nostalgic banknote from their birth year, connecting them to Slovakia’s financial heritage. ✨ Collectors of transitional banknotes – A rare piece featuring Czechoslovak design with Slovak overprints.
Why Collect This Banknote?
Owning the 1993 Slovakia 20 Korun note (P-15) is more than just acquiring currency—it’s holding a piece of history, celebrating Slovakia’s emergence as an independent nation.
