Obv.: Crowned shield bearing the quartered Arms of Poland and Lithuania, Vasa Arms at center, value 3 below; “SIGIS 3 D G – REX P M D L”. Rev.: Orb, with 24 (1/24 Thaler), date (16)2 - 2 across field; mintmaster’s sign below; “*MONE*NO – REG*POLO*”
The Poland Bydgoszcz Dreipölker 1622 of Sigismund III Vasa: A Numismatic and Historical Artifact
Historical Context
During the reign of Sigismund III Vasa (1587–1632), the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth was a formidable power in Europe, its territories stretching across modern-day Poland, Lithuania, and beyond. The mint at Bydgoszcz, a key economic center, played a significant role in producing coinage to support the Commonwealth’s vibrant trade and political ambitions. The Dreipölker, also known as Półtorak or 1½ Groschen (equivalent to 1/24 Thaler), was a widely circulated silver coin used for everyday transactions. Struck in 1622, this coin reflects the economic strength and cultural unity of the Commonwealth under Sigismund III, during a time of ongoing conflicts, including wars with Sweden and the Ottoman Empire, and internal religious tensions.
The Coin: Design and Characteristics
Cataloged as Górecki B.22.2.a and Kopicki 860, the 1622 Bydgoszcz Dreipölker is a silver coin graded NGC AU 58, indicating a near-mint state with slight traces of circulation but well-preserved details and luster. The obverse features a crowned shield bearing the quartered arms of Poland and Lithuania, with the Vasa family arms at the center and the value “3” below, signifying its nominal value in relation to the Groschen system. The inscription “SIGIS 3 D G – REX P M D L” translates to “Sigismund III, by the Grace of God, King of Poland, Grand Duke of Lithuania.” The reverse displays an orb, a symbol of royal authority, with “24” (indicating 1/24 Thaler) and the date “(16)2 – 2” across the field, accompanied by the mintmaster’s mark below and the inscription “MONENO – REGPOLO” (New Money of the Kingdom of Poland). The coin’s sharp details and attractive surfaces underscore the high-quality craftsmanship of the Bydgoszcz mint.
Numismatic Significance
Graded NGC AU 58, this Dreipölker is a remarkable example of early 17th-century Polish coinage, with only minimal wear that preserves its intricate design and historical value. The quartered arms and Vasa emblem highlight the political union of Poland and Lithuania, while the mintmaster’s mark ties the coin to the operational standards of the Bydgoszcz mint. Coins of this period often saw heavy circulation, making well-preserved specimens like this one highly sought after by collectors. The combination of its near-mint condition, clear inscriptions, and detailed iconography makes this coin a standout piece, offering insight into the numismatic artistry and economic policies of Sigismund III’s reign.
Cultural and Economic Impact
The Dreipölker was a cornerstone of the Polish-Lithuanian economy, facilitating small-scale transactions in markets and towns across the Commonwealth. Its silver content ensured its reliability as a medium of exchange, while its design—featuring the crowned shield and orb—served as a potent symbol of Sigismund III’s authority and the unity of the Commonwealth. The Bydgoszcz mint, renowned for its skilled production, was instrumental in sustaining the region’s economy amidst the challenges of war and political strife. The coin’s inscriptions and symbols reflect the cultural and political cohesion of Poland and Lithuania, even as Sigismund III navigated tensions between Catholicism and Protestantism, as well as external conflicts that shaped his reign.
Conclusion
The 1622 Bydgoszcz Dreipölker, graded NGC AU 58, is a striking artifact from the reign of Sigismund III Vasa, encapsulating the economic vitality and political unity of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Its near-mint condition, detailed design, and historical significance make it a prized piece for numismatists, while its connection to the Bydgoszcz mint and the Vasa dynasty roots it in the complex dynamics of early 17th-century Europe. This silver coin, with its crowned shield and enduring craftsmanship, stands as a testament to the power, artistry, and resilience of one of Europe’s great empires during a transformative era.
The Poland Bydgoszcz 3 Polker 1620 of Sigismund III Vasa: A Numismatic and Historical Gem
Historical Context
During the reign of Sigismund III Vasa (1587–1632), Poland-Lithuania was a major European power, its vast territories spanning modern-day Poland, Lithuania, and beyond. The mint at Bydgoszcz, an important economic hub, produced coinage to support the Commonwealth’s bustling trade and ambitious policies. The 3 Polker (or 3 Grosze), a fractional silver coin equivalent to 1/24 Thaler, was a key denomination for everyday commerce. Struck in 1620, this coin reflects the economic vitality and cultural prestige of Sigismund III’s reign, a period marked by wars, religious tensions, and efforts to strengthen the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
The Coin: Design and Characteristics
Cataloged as Górecki B.20.2.a and Kopicki 856, the 1620 Bydgoszcz 3 Polker is a silver coin graded NGC MS 63, indicating a superb mint state with sharp details, vibrant luster, and minimal signs of handling. The obverse features a crowned shield bearing the quartered arms of Poland and Lithuania, with the Vasa family arms at the center and the value “3” below. The inscription “SIGIS·3·D:G – REX·P·M·D·L·” translates to “Sigismund III, by the Grace of God, King of Poland, Grand Duke of Lithuania.” The reverse displays an orb, symbolizing royal authority, with “24” (indicating 1/24 Thaler) and the date “(16)2 – 0” across the field, alongside the mintmaster’s mark below and the inscription “·MONE·NO – REG·POLO·” (New Money of the Kingdom of Poland). The coin’s exceptional preservation highlights the technical prowess of the Bydgoszcz mint.
Numismatic Significance
Graded NGC MS 63, this 3 Polker is a standout example due to its near-pristine condition, a rarity for a coin of this era that typically saw heavy circulation. The sharp strike, clear inscriptions, and lustrous surfaces make it highly desirable for collectors. The quartered arms and Vasa emblem underscore the unity of Poland and Lithuania under Sigismund III, while the mintmaster’s mark provides a direct link to the mint’s operations. The coin’s high grade and detailed design offer valuable insight into the artistry and precision of early 17th-century Polish coinage, making it a prized addition to any numismatic collection.
Cultural and Economic Impact
The 3 Polker was a workhorse of the Polish-Lithuanian economy, facilitating small transactions in markets and towns across the Commonwealth. Its silver content ensured reliability in trade, while its design—featuring the royal arms and orb—served as a symbol of Sigismund III’s authority and the Commonwealth’s sovereignty. The Bydgoszcz mint, known for its high-quality output, played a crucial role in sustaining the region’s economy during a time of political and military challenges, including conflicts with Sweden and the Ottoman Empire. The coin’s inscriptions and symbols also reflect the cultural unity of Poland and Lithuania, a hallmark of Sigismund III’s reign, despite the religious and political tensions that marked his rule.
Conclusion
The 1620 Bydgoszcz 3 Polker, graded NGC MS 63, is a remarkable artifact from the reign of Sigismund III Vasa, encapsulating the economic and cultural vibrancy of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Its pristine condition, intricate design, and historical significance make it a treasure for numismatists, while its ties to the Bydgoszcz mint and the Vasa dynasty anchor it in the complex dynamics of early 17th-century Europe. This silver coin, with its crowned shield and enduring craftsmanship, stands as a testament to the power, artistry, and ambition of one of Europe’s great empires.