Central Bank of Armenia Issues Silver Collector Coin Honoring Sevanavank Monastery

YEREVAN — The Central Bank of Armenia has announced the release of a new silver collector coin dedicated to Sevanavank Monastery, scheduled to enter circulation on November 13, 2026, as part of its “Historical Doors” series.

The coin features the historic wooden door of the Church of the Holy Apostles at Sevanavank, dating to 1486. Its intricate design is reproduced using ultra-high-relief minting technology on both sides of the coin, highlighting the craftsmanship of medieval Armenian artisans.

According to the Central Bank, the original single-panel walnut door, measuring 186 × 98 centimeters, is an outstanding example of medieval Armenian woodcarving. It features elaborate biblical scenes and a rosette symbolizing eternity, while its doorposts are decorated with delicate carvings reminiscent of 13th- and 14th-century Armenian khachkars (cross-stones).

Situated on a hill overlooking the Sevan Peninsula, the Sevanavank monastery complex has a history extending back to the early Christian period. According to historical accounts, it was founded in 305 AD by St. Gregory the Illuminator and later developed into an important center of Armenian religious scholarship and manuscript production.

The Church of the Holy Apostles was constructed in 874 AD, as confirmed by an inscription on its wall. Its wooden door, created in 1486, is considered a significant example of Armenia’s medieval artistic heritage.

The historic door has been displayed at major international exhibitions, including at the Vatican during commemorations of the 1,700th anniversary of Armenia’s adoption of Christianity, the Louvre Museum in Paris, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. It is currently preserved at the History Museum of Armenia under state protection.

The coin’s obverse features the coat of arms of the Republic of Armenia, while the reverse depicts the historic door of the Church of the Holy Apostles.

Struck in 999.9-fine silver, the coin has a face value of 2,000 drams, weighs 62.2 grams, and measures 50 millimeters in diameter. It is produced in proof quality with a ribbed edge by the B.H. Mayer Mint in Germany.

The 2026 issue is limited to a maximum mintage of 999 coins, making it a commemorative tribute to Armenia’s rich architectural, religious, and artistic heritage.