The National Bank of Kazakhstan is expanding its Sport series with a new collectible release. The “OLYMPIC GAMES 2026. SHORT TRACK” coins are being issued into circulation, dedicated to one of the most dynamic and spectacular disciplines of the Winter Olympic Games, DKNews.kz reports.
Information about the start date of sales will be announced separately on the official website of the National Bank.
Why short track was chosen
Short track is an Olympic speed skating discipline known for its high speeds, tactical battles and intense competition. It has been part of the Winter Olympic Games program since 1992 and has consistently attracted a global audience thanks to its dramatic finishes and constant on-ice rivalry.
Races are decided in fractions of a second, positions change rapidly, and every turn can alter the outcome. This combination of speed and unpredictability has made short track one of the most exciting winter sports — and a symbolic choice for an Olympic-themed collectible.
Key features of the coin
The OLYMPIC GAMES 2026. SHORT TRACK collectible coin was developed in partnership with the German numismatic company MDM Münzhandelsgesellschaft mbH & Co. KG Deutsche Münze. Production was carried out at the Kazakhstan Mint.
Main specifications include:
- metal: 925 sterling silver
- weight: 20 grams
- diameter: 37 mm
- quality: proof
- face value: 1,000 tenge
- mintage: 2,000 pieces
The proof finish combined with color printing gives the coin a distinctive visual appeal, while the limited mintage enhances its collectible value.
More than a collector’s item
Although designed primarily for collectors, the coin also has the status of legal tender. It is mandatory for acceptance at its face value throughout the territory of Kazakhstan for all types of payments.
In addition, the coin can be:
- credited to bank accounts
- used for transfers
- exchanged or broken down at all banks operating in the country.
In practice, such coins usually remain in private collections, but their legal tender status underscores the state guarantee behind the issue.
Where sport meets numismatics
Olympic-themed coins serve as a way to preserve major sporting events in a tangible form. This release captures the speed, intensity and competitive spirit of short track skating in silver, reflecting the energy of the Winter Olympic Games.
For collectors, it is a limited-edition numismatic piece. For sports fans, it is a stylish and meaningful keepsake tied to one of the most thrilling Olympic disciplines.
