2010 Poland 100 Zlotych Gold Coin, Katyn Massacre 70th Anniversary
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic) · Yellow Gold. The classic rich warm yellow alloy characteristic of high-purity Polish commemorative coinage.
Purity: 900/1000 Fineness (21.6K). This indicates 90% pure gold and 10% alloy (usually copper) for durability. It is solid gold, not plated.
Type
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic)
Purity
900/1000 Fineness (21.6K). This indicates 90% pure gold and 10% alloy (usually copper) for durability. It is solid gold, not plated.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The classic rich warm yellow alloy characteristic of high-purity Polish commemorative coinage.
Weight
8.00 grams total weight. Containing 0.2315 troy ounces of pure gold content.
Description
A solemn and prestigious numismatic piece, this 100 Zlotych coin commemorates the 70th anniversary of the Katyn Massacre. The obverse features the crowned eagle—the national emblem of Poland—boldly centered against a reflective field, surrounded by clean, serif typography. It represents a significant historical artifact within the Polish 'Katyń-Charków-Miednoje' commemorative series.
Key Features
Crowned Polish Eagle emblem, MW mint mark, Proof-struck cameo contrast, 900 fine gold purity, and commemorative 2010 dating.
Color & Finish
Deep yellow with a Proof finish. Features mirror-like flat fields and frosted (cameo) raised motifs on the eagle and lettering.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The 'MW' monogram mint mark of the Mint of Poland (Mennica Polska) is located under the eagle's right talon. Text includes 'RZECZPOSPOLITA POLSKA' and the date '2010'.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 21.00 mm with a standard commemorative thickness of approx 1.50 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The coin relies on high-relief minting and numismatic texturing for its aesthetic appeal.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. Features a standard reeded edge finishing for security against clipping.
Chain & Links
Standard vertical reeding on the edge. High-quality rhythmic spacing indicative of official government minting.
Craftsmanship Details
Proof Strike. Executed with high-pressure dies to ensure the frost on the relief elements is crisp against the polished background. No visible signs of casting; consistent with official mint production.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the Eagle's feathers, specific MW mint mark placement, consistent font kerning, and the diagnostic 900 fineness color tone. Professional weight/diameter check recommended.
Origin & Maker
Poland; Mint of Poland (Warsaw). Issued by the National Bank of Poland (Narodowy Bank Polski).
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s-present). Designed in the modern commemorative style of the National Bank of Poland (NBP).
Age Estimate
Dated 2010. Approximately 14 years old as of current assessment.
Cultural Significance
High cultural importance to Poland; it honors the victims of the 1940 massacre of Polish officers, serving as both a financial asset and a vehicle for national memory.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Visible light surface scratches and minor rim dings (bag marks) suggest it has been handled outside of its original protective capsule. Numismatic Grade: AU (About Uncirculated) / Low MS (Mint State).
Value Estimate
Market value is approximately the current melt value for 8g of 21.6K gold plus a numismatic premium of 10-25% depending on the specific collector demand for Polish history issues.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish. Handle only by the edges using cotton gloves. Store in a PVC-free airtight slab or capsule to prevent further surface scratching or toning.
Similar Items
Other Polish 100 Zlotych gold commemoratives, the 200 Zlotych larger gold variants, or gold sovereign-sized commemorative coins from other Central European nations.
Interesting Facts
The 2010 Katyn series became tragically poignant because the plane crash in Smolensk, which killed the Polish President and 95 others, occurred while they were en route to attend the 70th-anniversary ceremony of this massacre.