Description of the 100 złoty gold coin John Paul II 1920-2005
The 100 złoty coin, issued in 2005, commemorates the life of one of the greatest and most outstanding Poles in the history of our country and the whole world – Pope John Paul II. It is a collector's coin in a mirror proof version. Its mintage is 18,700 pieces. Mirror coins differ from traditional bullion coins in that they have a perfectly shiny mirror-like surface on both the obverse and reverse sides. In addition, each coin is packed in a special case and capsule, which emphasizes their highest minting class.
Appearance of the 100 złoty gold coin John Paul II 1920-2005
The obverse of the coin features a stylized fragment of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. To the left of the dome is an image of an eagle, in accordance with the Polish coat of arms, and to the right is the denomination. The edge of the coin bears the inscription RZECZPOSPOLITA POLSKA (Republic of Poland) and the year of issue. The mint mark is located under the eagle's left talon. The reverse of the coin features a profile portrait of John Paul II, who is facing a visible fragment of the baptismal font from the Minor Basilica of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Wadowice. Above the portrait is the inscription JAN PAWEŁ II, while at the bottom of the coin are the dates 1920-2005, commemorating the years of the Pope's life. Urszula Walerzak is responsible for the design.
Historical overview
Karol Józef Wojtyła was born on May 18, 1920, in Wadowice. On October 16, 1978, he became pope, taking the name John Paul II. He died on April 2, 2005. He was one of the most influential leaders of the Catholic Church, known for his work for peace, human rights, and interfaith dialogue. His pontificate, which lasted almost 27 years, had a huge impact on global Catholicism and international politics. John Paul II was also known for his contribution to the fall of communism in Central and Eastern Europe.
The coin issued to commemorate the life and pontificate of John Paul II is valued by collectors for its historical and cultural significance. Its high quality and mirror finish make it a unique collector's item. Coins bearing the image of John Paul II are not only a souvenir, but also an investment whose value increases over time.
The coin was issued by the National Bank of Poland (NBP), which is responsible for issuing currency in Poland. The NBP regularly puts into circulation both circulation coins and collector and commemorative coins commemorating important events, anniversaries, and historical figures.