Poland 10 Zloty Silver Commemorative Coin - Maria Skłodowska-Curie
Coin/Bullion · Mennica Polska (Mint of Poland), Warsaw. Established in 1766, it is the only mint in Poland and one of the world's leading producers of coins and medals.
Pattern: Commemorative Series: Great Polish Personalities. This specific issue commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to Marie Curie.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Mennica Polska (Mint of Poland), Warsaw. Established in 1766, it is the only mint in Poland and one of the world's leading producers of coins and medals.
Material
Ag 925 (Sterling Silver). Contains 14.14 grams of silver content within a total weight of approximately 14.14 grams (0.4546 troy oz).
Dimensions
Diameter: 32.00 mm. Weight: 14.14 grams. This is a standard size for Polish 10 Zloty commemorative silver issues.
Description
A striking sterling silver commemorative coin featuring the profile of the world's most famous female scientist, Marie Curie. The coin exhibits a deep, colorful oxidation (toning) that creates an oil-on-water effect, common in silver stored in reactive environments. It serves as both a piece of bullion and a tribute to scientific history.
Key Features
High-relief portrait; distinctive 'rainbow toning'; 10 Zloty denomination (on reverse); Sterling Silver fineness; specific commemorative text for the 100th anniversary of her Nobel Prize.
Material & Composition
Ag 925 (Sterling Silver). Contains 14.14 grams of silver content within a total weight of approximately 14.14 grams (0.4546 troy oz).
Finish & Decoration
Proof-like or Uncirculated finish with significant iridescent tarnish. The obverse features a right-facing portrait of Marie Skłodowska-Curie. The text 'MARIE SKŁODOWSKA CURIE' and dates '1867-1934' are struck in relief around the perimeter.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually includes the 'MW' (Mennica Warszawska) mint mark on the reverse. The obverse shown features the portrait and dates. Purity is typically not stamped on the face but held to Ag 925 official standards.
Construction Details
Machine-struck, die-pressed coinage. Features a reeded edge and high-relief portraiture consistent with modern numismatic production.
Functional Features
Legal tender in Poland (nominal value of 10 Złotych), though primary function is numismatic collectibility and precious metal investment.
Handle & Grip Details
No handle; circular coin form designed for handheld inspection or capsule storage.
Craftsmanship Details
Expertly die-struck with fine detail in the hair and facial features. The lettering is crisp and the rim is well-defined, indicating a high-quality minting process.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the '1867-1934' text; specific font faces used by the Polish Mint; correct profile anatomy for known Curie issues; metallic sheen consistent with 92.5% silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Poland, Warsaw. Manufactured by the Mint of Poland, known for high-quality artistic strikes and innovative minting technology.
Era & Period
Modern Numismatic Period. Historical context: Issued to celebrate Polish-born scientist Marie Curie's contributions to radioactivity and her dual Nobel Prizes.
Age Estimate
Issued in 2011. The dates 1867-1934 on the coin refer to her lifespan, not the date of manufacture.
Cultural Significance
Represents Polish national pride and the global recognition of women in STEM. Marie Curie remains a central figure in Polish identity, and her appearance on currency reflects her status as a national hero.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine. The coin shows heavy environmental tarnish/toning which collectors may find aesthetically pleasing or distracting. No major rim dings or deep scratches are visible in the obverse photo. Grade: AU (About Uncirculated) Details - Toned.
Value Estimate
$25 - $45 USD depending on current silver spot prices and the buyer's preference for the specific colorful toning.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish. Toning on coins can add value to collectors; abrasive cleaning will destroy numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or an acid-free 'flip' to prevent further reactive tarnish.
Similar Pieces
1967 Cupro-Nickel or Silver 10 Zloty Curie coins (older versions); 2011 20 Zloty Banknote featuring Curie; French coins honoring the Curies (as she was also a citizen of France).
Interesting Facts
Marie Curie was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields (Physics and Chemistry). This specific coin is highly sought after by science enthusiasts and Polish history collectors.