Currencies tell stories. They hold history, culture, and identity. The tale of Czechia, Slovakia, and Czechoslovakia’s currencies is one of unity, change, and independence. Let’s dive into the fascinating journey of the three crowns.

The birth of the Czechoslovak koruna

The story begins in 1918. After World War I, the Austro-Hungarian Empire fell. From its ruins, Czech and Slovak people formed Czechoslovakia. A year later, in 1919, the new country introduced its own currency: the Czechoslovak koruna.

The koruna replaced the Austro-Hungarian krone. It quickly became one of Europe’s most stable currencies. Strong economic policies backed it, and its value reflected Czechoslovakia’s growing strength. 

The split: new beginnings for Czechia and Slovakia

World War II brought turmoil. In 1939, Czechoslovakia split into two parts. After the war ended in 1945, Czechoslovakia reunited. The Czechoslovak koruna returned, bringing a sense of normality. 

It remained the country’s currency through the communist era, though its value faced challenges from inflation and economic restrictions.

The velvet divorce and two new crowns

In 1993, Czechoslovakia peacefully split into Czechia and Slovakia. This event, called the Velvet Divorce, marked the end of the shared currency. Czechia introduced the Czech koruna, while Slovakia brought back the Slovak koruna.

Both countries took pride in their new currencies. Their banknotes and coins showcased national symbols, important figures, and local history. Though they shared a history, their currencies reflected their unique paths.

The story behind the name “koruna”

The name “koruna” means “crown” in Czech and Slovak, inspired by the currencies of historical European monarchies.

The koruna symbolised unity between Czechia and Slovakia during Czechoslovakia’s existence. Czechia kept the name “koruna” after the Velvet Divorce to honour its heritage.

Czechia’s and Slovakia’s koruna today

Czechia continues to use the koruna. It remains a symbol of the country’s independence and identity. The Czech koruna is strong and widely used for trade and tourism. 

Slovakia chose a different route. In 2009, it adopted the euro. Joining the Eurozone boosted trade and made travel easier, strengthening Slovakia’s ties with its European neighbours.

Bring your old korunas and euros back to life

At Leftover Currency, we make exchanging your old coins and notes simple. We accept obsolete Czechoslovak koruna, Czech koruna, obsolete Slovak koruna, and euros, no matter how long they’ve been sitting in your drawers.

If you’ve come across these currencies from past travels or found them while clearing out, don’t let them go to waste. You can easily send them to us, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Our process is quick, straightforward, and hassle-free. Whether you’re exchanging them for sentimental reasons or just want to cash in on your leftovers, we’re here to help. Turn your forgotten currency into something useful today!