1949 Republic of Poland 1 Grosz Coin
Coin/Bullion · Mennica Polska (Mint of Poland), Warsaw. This is a state-owned mint established in 1766, known for its long tradition of European coinage.
Pattern: Standard Circulation Coinage, Republic of Poland (Post-WWII Reform)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Mennica Polska (Mint of Poland), Warsaw. This is a state-owned mint established in 1766, known for its long tradition of European coinage.
Material
Aluminum. Note: Despite the user's request context for 'silver,' this specific 1949 1 Grosz issue was minted in aluminum to preserve precious metals during the post-war reconstruction.
Dimensions
Diameter: 14.7 mm; Weight: 0.5 grams; Thickness: 1.05 mm.
Description
A modest yet historically significant aluminum coin representing the first series of coinage for the post-war Republic of Poland. The obverse displays the meticulously engraved eagle, a national symbol that notably lacks its traditional crown during this political era. It is currently preserved in a professional numismatic display holder.
Key Features
Aluminum composition; Crownless eagle motif; Year 1949; Smallest denomination of the Zloty currency system.
Material & Composition
Aluminum. Note: Despite the user's request context for 'silver,' this specific 1949 1 Grosz issue was minted in aluminum to preserve precious metals during the post-war reconstruction.
Finish & Decoration
Uncirculated to lightly circulated strike. Obverse features the Coat of Arms of Poland (Eagle without crown, reflecting Socialist/Communist era iconography). Reverse features numismatic denomination.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Text 'RZECZPOSPOLITA POLSKA' (Republic of Poland) on the obverse. Date '1949' at the base. Mint mark for the Warsaw Mint (Mennica Warszawska) is typically located under the right talon of the eagle.
Construction Details
Die-struck/Machine-milled. This is a mass-produced circulation coin stamped from aluminum planchets.
Functional Features
Serrated/Reeded edge; standard currency unit for circulation.
Handle & Grip Details
None; housed in a 2x2 cardboard and mylar coin flip for archival protection.
Craftsmanship Details
Clean industrial strike; the detail on the eagle's feathers shows high-quality die engraving despite the inexpensive base metal.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style for 1949 series; weight and diameter match standard catalog specifications; correct depiction of the socialist-era eagle.
Origin & Manufacturing
Warsaw, Poland. Manufactured by the Mint of Poland under the authority of the National Bank of Poland.
Era & Period
Early Socialist Poland / Post-WWII Reconstruction. Reflects the transition from the Second Republic to the People's Republic of Poland.
Age Estimate
Dated 1949; minted between 1949 and the early 1950s as part of the 1950 monetary reform.
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic stabilization of Poland after the devastation of World War II and the ideological shift towards the Polish People's Republic.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine. Shows light surface oxidation characteristic of aged aluminum and minor contact marks. The holder is secured with tape and labeled with a typewriter-style font.
Value Estimate
$0.50 - $2.00 USD. This is a common circulation coin with high mintage; value is primarily sentimental or as a historical placeholder.
Care & Maintenance
Keep in the current mylar flip to prevent aluminum rot (oxidation). Avoid cleaning with chemicals, as aluminum is highly reactive and soft.
Similar Pieces
1949 2 Groszy, 5 Groszy, and 10 Groszy coins from the same series, all minted in aluminum with similar designs but varying sizes.
Interesting Facts
Though dated 1949, these coins were part of a secret monetary reform and did not actually enter circulation until 1950. They were minted in very high quantities (over 200 million) across various denominations in that specific year.