New commemorative coins honour Soviet animation classic
The Bank of Russia will issue three commemorative coins dedicated to the animated film The Golden Antelope on September 22, 2026. The release comprises one silver and two base metal denominations within the Soviet animation series.
From fine silver to colored cupronickel
The issuance includes a 3-ruble silver coin minted in proof quality with a fine metal content of 31.1 grams and 925 fineness, limited to 7,000 pieces.
Measuring 39.0 millimeters in diameter, the silver coin features colored reverse imagery of the characters alongside laser-treated matte finishing produced at the Saint Petersburg Mint.
The central bank is also releasing two 25-ruble base metal coins measuring 27.0 millimeters, produced by the Moscow Mint.
The base metal issue comprises 850,000 nickel-plated steel coins with a relief design and 150,000 cupronickel coins featuring a colored coating.
All three editions are official legal tender across the Russian Federation at face value.
Folklore, rotoscoping and Cannes acclaim
The coins highlight director Lev Atamanov’s 1954 animated classic, adapted from Indian folktales about a greedy rajah and an orphan boy allied with a magical gold-striking antelope.
Produced using the rotoscoping animation technique, the production involved frame-by-frame painting over live-action footage filmed with real actors and decorative sets.
The film earned international recognition and several festival honours, including an award at the Cannes Film Festival.
The series continues the central bank’s established numismatic programme celebrating notable Soviet and Russian cinematic works.
Collector appeal over economic weight
Commemorative mintages represent routine housekeeping with zero impact on monetary conditions.
Despite formal legal tender status, the pieces will function as collector items rather than circulating currency.
The issuance satisfies cultural demand while carrying no broader macroeconomic significance.