Polish 10 Groszy Circulation Coin (Cupronickel/Steel)
Coin (Circulation Currency) · None. The item exhibits a silver/metallic color characteristic of Cupronickel, not gold.
Purity: Non-gold; 0% purity. This is a base metal circulation coin composed of Cupronickel or Manganese-Brass plated steel.
Type
Coin (Circulation Currency)
Purity
Non-gold; 0% purity. This is a base metal circulation coin composed of Cupronickel or Manganese-Brass plated steel.
Gold Type
None. The item exhibits a silver/metallic color characteristic of Cupronickel, not gold.
Weight
2.51 grams
Description
A standard circulation 10 Groszy coin from Poland. It features a central numeral '10' over the word 'GROSZY', surrounded by a stylized wreath of oak leaves. This is a common piece of pocket change with no precious metal content.
Key Features
Denominated as 10 Groszy; oak leaf wreath design; Polish language text; silver-colored base metal composition.
Color & Finish
Silver-toned metallic color with a circulating finish. Visible surface dirt, oxidation/toning, and minor scratches from circulation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with '10 GROSZY' and a decorative oak leaf wreath; mint mark (Mondeta Warszawska) is likely present on the reverse side (not shown).
Dimensions Estimate
16.5 mm in diameter, 1.32 mm in thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
None; reeded or smooth edge typical of circulation coinage.
Chain & Links
N/A; Solid metal coin construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced via industrial minting presses. Sharp relief on the numerals and leaves despite circulation wear.
Authentication Indicators
Correct typeface for Polish Groszy coins; standard oak leaf motif; wear patterns consistent with cupronickel coinage. Magnetism test would determine if it is the newer steel version or older cupronickel.
Origin & Maker
Poland; Minted by Mennica Polska (Polish Mint) in Warsaw.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Republic of Poland, 1990-Present)
Age Estimate
Post-1990; part of the current Polish Zloty currency system.
Cultural Significance
Represents the fractional currency of the Third Polish Republic; a staple of daily commerce in Poland.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; Moderate surface wear, visible dirt/foreign matter at the 11 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions, minor rim dings.
Value Estimate
Face value of 0.10 PLN (approximately $0.025 USD). No melt value or numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
No special care required as it has no precious metal value; avoid harsh chemicals if keeping for a collection, though it is face-value currency.
Similar Items
Polish 20 Groszy and 50 Groszy coins which share a similar cupronickel appearance and botanical motifs.
Interesting Facts
The 'Grosz' name is derived from the 'Groschen', a type of coin used in various European states since the Middle Ages.