1979 Poland Environmental Protection Mountain Goat 100 Złotych Silver Próba
The 1979 Poland Environmental Protection 100 Złotych Próba is a striking silver pattern coin featuring the mountain goat, or chamois (kozica), as part of Poland’s Environmental Protection series. Issued during the Polish People’s Republic, this coin highlights Poland’s native wildlife while showcasing the distinctive artistry of Polish commemorative coinage from the late 1970s.
The obverse features the Polish Eagle, Poland’s national emblem, along with the inscription “POLSKA RZECZPOSPOLITA LUDOWA” (Polish People’s Republic), the denomination “100 ZŁ,” the year 1979, and the “MW” mintmark of the Warsaw Mint. The reverse depicts a mountain goat against a mountainous landscape, accompanied by the inscription “OCHRONA ŚRODOWISKA” (Environmental Protection) and the designation “PRÓBA,” identifying the piece as an official Polish trial strike.
Struck at the Warsaw Mint in .625 fine silver, this limited-production Próba combines precious metal content with a distinctive wildlife design. The reported mintage of approximately 4,100 silver proof examples makes this issue considerably more limited than many standard Polish commemorative coins from the period.
The combination of its silver composition, large 100 Złotych denomination, limited production, and attractive mountain goat design makes this an excellent addition for collectors of Polish numismatics, Próba issues, wildlife-themed coins, and modern world silver.
Specifications
Year: 1979
Country: Poland
Denomination: 100 Złotych
Series: Environmental Protection
Type: Próba (Official Trial Strike / Pattern)
Mint: Warsaw Mint
Composition: .625 Fine Silver
Weight: 16.5 grams
Actual Silver Weight: 0.332 troy oz (10.31 g)
Diameter: 32 mm
Edge: Plain
Reported Mintage: 4,100
Catalog Reference: Parchimowicz P392a
Historical Significance
The Environmental Protection series reflects Poland’s efforts to highlight its native wildlife and natural heritage through commemorative coinage. The mountain goat, or chamois (kozica), is associated with the mountainous regions of southern Poland, particularly the Tatra Mountains, and remains an important symbol of Poland’s alpine wildlife.
The inscription “OCHRONA ŚRODOWISKA,” meaning “Environmental Protection,” identifies the broader theme of the series. The 1979 issues featured wildlife designs including the mountain goat and lynx, continuing Poland’s use of coinage to showcase the country’s natural environment.
The “PRÓBA” designation identifies this piece as an official Polish pattern or trial issue rather than a standard circulating coin. With a reported mintage of approximately 4,100 silver proof examples, this issue offers collectors a combination of limited production, precious metal content, historical significance, and distinctive Polish wildlife imagery.
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