Sławomir and Szymon Milewski, members of the Triglav Historical and Research Association, stumbled upon 17 silver coins while searching for remnants of an ancient Roman road. The discovery, made in collaboration with the Polish "Husaria" Treasure Hunters Association, has stunned experts and enthusiasts alike.
“We were rubbing our eyes in disbelief,” said Piotr Duda, an archaeologist with Triglav. “This is probably one of the largest finds of its kind ever discovered in Poland, and certainly in Mazovia. The historical significance is beyond measure, and its estimated material value is half a million złotys.”
The treasure includes coins from Saxony, Brandenburg, and the Netherlands, dating back to the tumultuous period of the Thirty Years' War. Among the highlights is a rare 1630 thaler from Sigismund III Vasa, minted in Toruń. A similar but lesser-preserved coin sold for over 86,000 złotys earlier this year, underscoring the immense value of this pristine collection.
Historians speculate that the treasure may have been hidden by a soldier or mercenary from the Thirty Years' War or by a wealthy merchant seeking to protect his fortune. Among the other rare coins are a 1623 thaler from the Palatinate and 1621 Tyrol thalers, with many in exceptional condition.
The discovery will soon be handed over to the Mazovian Provincial Heritage Conservator, with hopes it will remain on display locally at the Museum of the September Campaign and Modlin Fortress.
(jh)
Source: Radio Zet, PAP