Saints on coins

Published:2020-02-11

    
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Coins with images of saints have appeared in the Polish coinage for centuries. They were to serve not only as a means of payment, but also provide protection for the kingdom or principality, God's protection and raise the morale of the inhabitants.

These types of numismatic items are e.g. Gdansk siege coins minted in 1577. The besieged city (by King Stefan Batory) issued them to pay for mercenary soldiers and to ensure the possibility of internal trade. These coins show the half-figure of Christ and the inscription "DEFENDE NOS CHRISTE" czyli "CHRIST PROTECT US".

Another example can be the 16th century Silesia coins of Matthias Corvinus with the image of Saint John with the Lamb of God.

Currently, coins with images of clergy are also issued. Currently, the most frequently minted saint on coins is, of course, St. John Paul II, and many of us keep such a coin in their wallet "for good luck"...

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