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The Yugoslavia 250 Dinara 1983 Proof silver coin (KM#100), known colloquially as the "Artifact" coin, is a compelling issue in the commemorative series released for the 1984 Winter Olympic Games in Sarajevo. Unlike other coins in the series that depict sports or cityscapes, this issue highlights Yugoslavia’s rich prehistoric heritage, featuring a Bronze Age artifact as its central motif. Struck in sterling silver with a proof finish, the coin reflects the country’s efforts to intertwine modern international celebration with national cultural pride. As a result, it is not only a collector’s item of numismatic quality but also an expression of Yugoslavia’s historical continuity and identity.
The obverse features the emblem of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, used across all denominations in the Olympic series. It displays six bound torches representing the unity of the six republics of Yugoslavia, merged into a single flame encircled by wheat sheaves tied with a ribbon bearing the inscription “29-XI-1943”—the date the federal republic was established. Surrounding the emblem are the inscriptions in both Cyrillic and Latin script: “СФР ЈУГОСЛАВИЈА” and “SFR JUGOSLAVIJA.” The proof finish enhances the emblem’s depth and clarity, presenting a clean frosted relief over mirror-polished fields.
The reverse of the coin features a stylized depiction of a Bronze Age cult vessel, commonly identified as originating from the Vučedol or Vinča cultures—two of the most important prehistoric civilizations in the Balkans. The artifact is a geometrically patterned object with anthropomorphic or symbolic features, a powerful nod to the region’s ancient spiritual and material culture. Above the artifact are the Olympic rings, connecting the theme of national heritage with the international event. The upper inscription reads “XIV ZIMSKE OLIMPIJSKE IGRE – SARAJEVO 1984” (“14th Winter Olympic Games – Sarajevo 1984”), and the lower arc bears the denomination “250 DINARA” and the date “1983.”
The choice to depict a Bronze Age artifact on a modern Olympic commemorative is both unique and meaningful. It reflects the cultural ambition of Yugoslavia to showcase not only its athletic participation on the world stage but also its deep historical roots. By celebrating an object from prehistoric Balkan civilization, the coin underscores the idea of cultural endurance and national identity rooted in a long and diverse past. It stands apart from typical Olympic coinage, which more often focuses on athletes, sports, or Olympic infrastructure.
Minted in .925 fine silver (sterling), the coin weighs 30 grams and measures 40 millimeters in diameter. These dimensions are consistent with the other 250 Dinara silver proof coins in the Sarajevo Olympics series. Its large size and high-quality proof strike allow the fine engraved lines of the artifact and national emblem to appear clearly, with deep cameo contrast between frosted devices and polished fields. The Yugoslav Mint in Belgrade, known for producing high-quality commemorative coinage during this era, was responsible for striking this issue to exacting standards.
The mintage of the 1983 250 Dinara Artifact coin was limited, with approximately 25,000 proof coins issued. Each coin was originally distributed in a clamshell presentation case—typically blue or burgundy—and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from the National Bank of Yugoslavia or the Sarajevo Olympic Organizing Committee. These presentation elements add value and desirability to the coin, especially for collectors seeking complete and original issues.
In PF (Proof) condition, the coin displays flawless or near-flawless surfaces, with strong reflectivity in the fields and clean, frosted elements. The fine lines of the Bronze Age motif are sharply struck, and there should be no spotting, haze, or post-mint damage. Many examples submitted to grading services like NGC or PCGS receive high grades of PF69 or PF70, reflecting the quality of production. Proof examples that remain in their original mint capsules with intact cases and COAs are considered the most desirable and typically command higher premiums.
From a thematic standpoint, this coin provides a unique dimension to the 1984 Sarajevo Olympic commemorative program. Where other coins in the set highlight modern infrastructure, sports, and urban life, the Artifact coin steps back thousands of years to emphasize the spiritual and cultural origins of the region. It communicates that Yugoslavia’s significance was not limited to the 20th century but extended deep into prehistory, aligning the Olympic ideals of human achievement and continuity with archaeological legacy.
The Artifact coin is highly regarded among collectors of Olympic numismatics, Balkan coinage, and cultural-themed commemoratives. Its unusual subject matter makes it stand out not just in the Sarajevo set, but across international Olympic series, which rarely pay tribute to ancient artifacts. Collectors assembling the complete 1984 Winter Games set often view this coin as a centerpiece for its historical gravity and artistry. It also appeals to historians and archaeologists who collect coins with anthropological or symbolic significance.
The 1983 Yugoslavia 250 Dinara Proof silver coin featuring the Bronze Age artifact (KM#100) remains one of the most intellectually and artistically significant Olympic commemorative coins ever struck. It offers a sophisticated blend of modern craftsmanship and ancient cultural reference, captured in pure silver and minted to the highest standards. As a numismatic piece, it is rich in both visual appeal and thematic depth—ideal for collectors of Olympic history, Balkan heritage, or those seeking coins with a narrative far beyond the sporting arena.