The Giants of Poland • #5 Maria Sklodowska-Curie (1867-1934) • 1 Ounce .999 Silver Proof • 45 mm • 24-ct Gold Accents

With the groundbreaking release of “The Giants of Poland” (“Wielcy Polacy”), the historic first & only program of its kind in the U.S. & Canada, The Polish Heritage Mint proudly honors 14 most distinguished Polish & Polish-American heroes. To learn more visit program website here.

Discover the monumental scientific heritage of the esteemed Polish-French scientist, Marie Skłodowska-Curie through this 1 ounce .999 silver proof commemorative medallion, struck in a standout 45 mm diameter and ennobled with 24-ct gold accents:

• Composition: .999 triple fine silver (Ag 999/1,000)
• Mintage: limited to just 5,000
• Finish: Proof, ennobled with selective 24-carat gold plating
• Diameter: 45 mm (1.77 inches)
• Weight: 1.00 troy oz. (31.108 grams)

Obverse: The obverse of the piece showcases an eminent scientist known for her groundbreaking work in the field of nuclear science, Maria Sklodowska-Curie in the center. Her unique achievement of being the first person to receive two Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields—Physics and Chemistry is further highlighted by two laurel branches plated in 24-karat gold, symbolizing her dual Nobel Prizes. The commemorative medallion also includes the chemical symbols for polonium (Po) and radium (Ra), the two elements she discovered, placed within a graphical representation of the electron shell of polonium, a nod to her scientific work. The mention of polonium is significant, not only scientifically but also politically, as Curie named it after her homeland, Poland, to draw international attention to her country, which was under partition at the time. Reverse: Drawing inspiration from Polish tradition, the image features the national personification of Poland, Polonia, joining Britannia and Lady Liberty on contemporary coinage. Designed by Antoni Madeyski, the design showcases a woman's profile adorned with a wreath against a radiant sunlight backdrop. This design first gained prominence on the silver 10 zloty coin in 1932. For this issue, Polish engraver Monika Molenda masterfully adds a striking crown design. Intertwined leaves of the Polish oak and laurel embrace the rim. The motto of The Giants of Poland Collection, “Gigantivm · Hvmeris · Insidentes,” honors the remarkable sons and daughters of the Polish nation. To the right, the Polish state emblem, the White Eagle, a design by Wojciech Jastrzębowski for Second Polish Republic coins, is displayed.