Obverse: the obverse depicts the Madara Horseman, an early medieval rock relief regarded as one of Bulgaria’s most important historical symbols. A lion is shown beneath the horse. Around the design are the inscriptions “Bulgaria”, the denomination “10,000 Leva”, and the year “1998”.
Reverse: the reverse features a map of Europe together with an artistic composition of a mask and figure symbolizing Bulgaria’s cultural heritage and its place in Europe. The inscription “EURO” appears above, surrounded by stars along the rim.
About the coin: this silver coin was issued to showcase Bulgaria’s historical and cultural heritage within the European context. The Madara Horseman is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous symbols of Bulgaria. The relief was carved in the 8th century near the village of Madara and is associated with the rulers of the First Bulgarian Empire.