ECB approves design of Bulgarian 1 euro coin

13.08.2025 | Bulgaria

Christine Lagarde expressed approval for the design of the Bulgarian 1 euro coin, which will bear the image of St. Ivan of Rila. This is an important step towards the eurozone.

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In a significant step towards the adoption of the euro in Bulgaria, European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde expressed her approval for the design of the Bulgarian 1 euro coin. This was revealed in her post on the social network "Facebook", which sparked a wave of interest among the Bulgarian public and European financial circles.

Exciting news for Bulgaria and the eurozone! Take a first look at the design of the Bulgarian 1 euro coin

The coin design, which was publicly presented for the first time, is the result of careful selection aimed at reflecting Bulgarian identity and cultural heritage. Lagarde emphasized that the new coin "maintains continuity with Bulgaria's current coins and includes symbols that are deeply rooted in the country's heritage and valued by its people".

Design of the national side

The national side of the Bulgarian 1 euro coin will bear the image of St. Ivan of Rila, a revered Bulgarian spiritual leader who lived between 876 and 946. Known as a hermit monk, miracle worker, and heavenly protector of the Bulgarian people, St. Ivan of Rila is the founder of the iconic Rila Monastery - a symbol of Bulgarian spirituality and culture.

The design also includes the inscription "БЪЛГАРИЯ" (BULGARIA) in Cyrillic to the right of the saint's image, while on the left are the inscription "ЕВРО" (EURO) and the year of issue. This combination of historical and contemporary elements emphasizes Bulgaria's desire to preserve its cultural identity while integrating more deeply into European structures.

Step towards the eurozone

Although the exact date for the introduction of the euro in Bulgaria has not yet been determined, the presentation of the coin design is an important step in the country's preparation for joining the eurozone.

This move is part of Bulgaria's broader strategy for full participation in European financial mechanisms. The introduction of the euro is expected to bring a number of economic advantages, including greater exchange rate stability, reduced transaction costs, and deeper integration into the European single market.

Experts note that the adoption of the euro will require careful preparation from both financial institutions and Bulgarian society as a whole. Important steps lie ahead, including meeting convergence criteria, adapting the banking system, and conducting an information campaign for citizens.

The presentation of the 1 euro coin design is not only a symbolic gesture but also a practical step towards realizing Bulgaria's long-term goal of full membership in the eurozone. This development is being watched with great interest both in the country and in the rest of the European Union, and is expected to have a significant impact on Bulgaria's economic future.