Croatia: Elusive Brusnik Black Lizard Features on New Gold and Silver Commemorative Coins

At the end of 2021, the first series of gold and silver collector coins in this series were released featuring species and that featured was the distinctive Dalmatian dog. This year, the coin’s design is dedicated to the black lizard, one of the most famous inhabitants of the historically rich and beautiful but miniscule island of Brusnik. Due to its geological history marked by volcanic origin and the presence of porous limestone, Brusnik has been protected as a natural monument since 1951. The island is home to numerous endemic species, and one of its inhabitants enjoying the environment of crystal-clear sea and colourful underwater landscapes is the black lizard. Recognisable by its black colour and turquoise-blue spots, the black lizard or Podarcis melisellensis melisellensis to reference its scientific name is a thriving symbol of wildlife nature, conservation and biodiversity.

The gold and silver BU quality coins are produced by the Croatian Mint at their facilities in Sveta Nedelja on behalf of the Croatian National Bank. Designed by renowned sculptor Nikola Vudrag, his detailed depiction of the Black Lizard introduces a story that may not be widely known but is certainly worth highlighting. The reverse of the coin depicts the topography of the island of Brusnik with sea waves in the background along with a vivid, full image of the black lizard placed to the left side. The year 2024 is shown just along the rim to the left of the Black lizard and the text PODARCIS MELISELLENSIS MELISELLENSIS is shown along the rim of the right side. The obverse side features a beautifully detailed depiction of the Black Lizard close up and peeking out from behind a rock with the outline of the island of Brusnik along with a linear surface pattern shown as a background. The text along the upper left rim denotes the country REPUBLIKA HRVATSKA (Croatia) and the text along the right rim reads CRNA GUSTERICA (Black Lizard). The denomination 10 EURO (gold) or 4 EURO (silver) is seen along the lower right rim.

Both the gold and silver BU coins are encapsulated and presented in a custom branded case and accompanied with a certificate of authenticity. Dispatch commences from the 18^th March and orders will be fulfilled as they are received. For additional information, please visit the online webshop of the Croatian Mint.