Today : Oct 21, 2025
Arts & Culture
21 October 2025

Rare 2026 Year Of The Horse Medals Unveiled

Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation launches its rarest zodiac medal yet, blending tradition with modern artistry and global appeal.

Collectors and enthusiasts across South Korea and beyond are abuzz with excitement as the Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation (KOMSCO) unveils its newest commemorative coin: the '2026 Year of the Horse' medal. Announced on October 20, 2025, this release marks the third installment in KOMSCO's best-selling 'Twelve Zodiac Series,' following the well-received '2025 Year of the Snake' edition, according to ArtKorea Broadcasting and Cheonji Ilbo.

The '2026 Year of the Horse' commemorative medal celebrates the Bingwu year (丙午年), known as the 'Year of the Red Horse' in the lunar zodiac. This year is often associated with strength, prosperity, and vibrant energy—qualities that are vividly captured in the medal's design. The medal's front features a dynamic horse galloping across a sunlit, expansive field, rendered with the distinctive traditional-meets-modern brushwork of contemporary folk artist Seo Hana. Seo has now contributed her artistic vision to the series for three consecutive years, a fact that has delighted fans and collectors alike.

But what makes this release truly special? For one, it's the rarest of the series so far. KOMSCO has confirmed that the 2026 medal is being minted in the smallest quantities yet, making it a highly coveted item for collectors. Specifically, only 50 sets of the gold-silver medal duo (comprising a 15.55g gold medal and a 31.1g silver medal, priced at 5,720,000 KRW per set) are available. Additionally, just 300 colored silver medals (31.1g each, priced at 286,000 KRW) are up for grabs. The scarcity of these medals is expected to drive up their value and desirability, especially among those who have followed the series from its inception.

On the reverse side of the medal, collectors will find the characters for 'Bingwu' (丙午), elegantly integrated with a stylized horseshoe motif—a symbol of luck and forward momentum. This blend of traditional symbolism and modern geometric design is a hallmark of the series, which seeks to bridge Korea's rich heritage with contemporary aesthetics.

Themed around the power of words and their capacity to inspire hope and encouragement, the 'Year of the Horse' medal also incorporates special engraving techniques. According to Cheonji Ilbo, these techniques are intended to evoke the enduring influence of language—an apt metaphor for a year that, in Korean tradition, is believed to bring new beginnings and energetic change. The series as a whole has become a bestseller for KOMSCO, with each new release eagerly anticipated by the public.

In addition to the domestic medals, KOMSCO has announced that leading international mints are joining in the celebration. The United Kingdom's Royal Mint is issuing a hefty 156.3g gold coin, priced at a staggering 44,000,000 KRW, while the Monnaie de Paris in France is releasing a 7.78g gold coin, available for 2,420,000 KRW. These international editions add a global dimension to the festivities, highlighting the widespread appeal of zodiac-themed collectibles.

For those eager to secure a piece of this limited-edition history, timing is everything. The reservation window is open for just two weeks, from October 20 to October 31, 2025. Sales are being conducted on a first-come, first-served basis, with a variety of convenient purchasing options. Offline, buyers can visit any branch of IBK Industry Bank or NH Nonghyup Bank nationwide. Online shoppers have a wealth of choices, including KOMSCO's official online store, Hyundai H Mall, The Hyundai Department Store, Lotte Department Store Mall, SSG Mall, and even Hana Bank's Hana1Q mobile app. This wide range of channels is designed to ensure that both seasoned collectors and casual buyers have a fair shot at obtaining these coveted medals.

The enthusiasm surrounding the '2026 Year of the Horse' medal is palpable. According to ArtKorea Broadcasting, last year's '2025 Year of the Snake' edition was met with overwhelming demand, setting high expectations for this latest release. The combination of striking design, limited availability, and cultural significance makes this year's medal a standout addition to the series.

Collectors are also drawn to the series for its unique approach to blending tradition and innovation. Seo Hana's artwork, which reinterprets classic Korean folk painting through a modern lens, has been widely praised for its vibrancy and emotional resonance. The horse, depicted in bold red hues against a backdrop of golden fields, is not just a symbol of the year—it embodies the spirit of ambition, success, and vitality that many hope to channel in 2026.

But it isn't just about aesthetics. The technical craftsmanship of the medals is equally impressive. Each piece is struck using advanced minting techniques that enhance the depth and detail of the design. The special engraving methods employed are intended to capture the 'power of words,' a theme that runs through the entire 'Year of the Word' series. As Cheonji Ilbo notes, these medals are more than just collectibles—they are meant to serve as tokens of encouragement and hope, especially in challenging times.

International interest in the zodiac series continues to grow. The involvement of prestigious mints like the Royal Mint and Monnaie de Paris underscores the universal appeal of the lunar calendar and its associated symbols. For many, owning one of these medals is not just about investment; it's about participating in a tradition that spans cultures and continents.

For those considering a purchase, it's worth noting that these medals are expected to sell out quickly. The combination of limited quantities, artistic pedigree, and cultural resonance makes them a hot commodity. As the reservation period draws to a close, collectors are urged to act swiftly if they hope to secure a piece of this year's most talked-about commemorative coin release.

In a year that promises change and renewal, the '2026 Year of the Horse' commemorative medal stands as a fitting symbol of optimism and forward motion—a small but meaningful way for people to carry a bit of hope and tradition into the future.