The ninth silver coin from the Czech Mint’s Cat Breeds series features the Norwegian Forest cat.

This breed, whose genetic lineage dates back to medieval Scandinavia, likely evolved without human influence. Through natural selection in the cold and harsh Nordic landscape, only the hardiest individuals survived. The body of this sturdy feline, with its robust frame and strong musculature, is visually enhanced by long fur, which forms a ruff, trousers, and a bushy tail. Thanks to this, Norwegian Forest Cats are perfectly adapted to temperatures well below freezing and heavy rain. They are excellent climbers and jumpers—aided by their longer hind legs. Despite their wild appearance, fierce expression, and love of hunting, they are gentle and affectionate pets. However, they cannot deny their natural playfulness and energy, which is why they need plenty of exercise.

On the reverse side of the coin, designed by medalist David Paulík, the norwegian forest cat appears twice. The first depiction is colored, highlighting its characteristic fur. The second, which is embossed, shows a cat climbing a tree trunk. The composition is completed by the Czech-English inscription NORSKÁ LESNÍ KOČKA – NORWEGIAN FOREST CAT. On the obverse side, which is common to the entire series, you will find a silhouette of the cat and paw prints. Since the Czech Mint’s coins are issued under a foreign license from the island of Niue, the obverse side also bears its national coat of arms, the nominal value of 1 DOLLAR (NZD), and the year of issue 2026.

You can store all twelve coins from the cat series in a collector’s album, which is also available from the Czech Mint.

Breeder of the cat depicted on the coin and source of the photograph used: Alena Amlerová, Rainbow Forest CZ