RA Gold - 2008 - 10,000 dram - Khachatour Abovyan: 200th Birth Anniversary

RA Gold Commemorative - 20

Obverse: Portrait of Khachatour Abovyan (1809-1848), the founder of modern Armenian literature and pedagogy, depicted in profile. The Armenian inscription reads: "ԽԱՉԱՏՈՒՐ ԱԲՈՎՅԱՆ" ("Khachatour Abovyan"), and below the portrait, the number "200" is displayed, symbolizing the bicentenary of his birth.

Reverse: The obverse features the coat of arms of the Republic of Armenia, positioned at the center. The inscription around the upper edge reads: "ՀԱՅԱՍՏԱՆ 2008" ("Republic of Armenia 2008"). Below the coat of arms, the denomination "10000" is inscribed, with "ԴՐԱՄ" ("dram") beneath it.

Denomination: 10,000 dram
Metal: Gold 900
Weight: 8.60 g
Diameter: 22 mm
Mintage: 1,000 pcs
Edge: Reeded
Strike Quality: Proof
Designer: Karapet Abrahamyan
Mint: Mint of Finland LTD

Khachatour Abovyan (1809-1848) is regarded as the founder of modern Armenian literature and a pioneer in Armenian pedagogy. Born in the village of Kanaker, which is now part of Yerevan, Abovyan received his education at Dorpat University (now Tartu, Estonia) and was trained as a teacher under a special program. He believed that literacy, the arts, and education were crucial paths toward moral and intellectual development for individuals and society. Abovyan made significant efforts to modernize the Armenian language, recognizing its importance in preserving Armenian culture and ensuring the nation's survival. His literary works had a profound influence on Armenian public thought and have been translated into numerous languages. His legacy endures as a key figure who shaped Armenian identity through his contributions to education, language reform, and literature.