NBP Banknote John Paul II 2006 50 Zloty
In October 2006, the National Bank of Poland issued the first Polish collector banknote with a face value of 50 zł, dedicated to Saint John Paul II. This issue coincided with the 28th anniversary of Karol Wojtyła’s election as Pope and became a milestone in the history of Polish numismatics. The banknote, produced with exceptional precision and rich in symbolism, is a tribute to the spiritual and historical legacy of the Polish Pope.
The design not only reflects key themes of John Paul II’s pontificate but also refers to his relationship with Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński and the importance of Jasna Góra in the spiritual life of both clergymen. Issued in a year marking two anniversaries – the 25th anniversary of the Primate’s death and the 50th anniversary of his release from internment – the banknote carries profound symbolic meaning.
Front side – the Pope and the symbolism of universality
The front side features a portrait of John Paul II in pontifical attire, holding a crosier and giving a blessing. The background shows a stylized globe, emphasizing the universal nature of his mission. In the lower right corner, the Pope’s signature and the dates of his pontificate – “16 X 1978 – 2 IV 2005” – are placed, recalling his nearly 27-year leadership of the Catholic Church.
Reverse side – tribute to the Primate of the Millennium
The reverse shows an emotional scene from the inauguration of the pontificate, when John Paul II – breaking protocol – rises from the papal throne to embrace Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński in a gesture of gratitude. Next to this scene is a quote from the Letter to Poles dated 23 October 1978, in which the Pope highlights the Primate’s role in his path to the See of Peter. Below are the mottos of both figures: “Totus Tuus” (John Paul II) and “Soli Deo” (Cardinal Wyszyński). The composition is completed with a silhouette of the Jasna Góra Monastery – a symbol of spiritual support for the nation.
Advanced security features of the collector banknote
- Watermark – coat of arms of John Paul II
- Security thread with the inscription “50 ZŁ”
- Microprints with the inscriptions “RZECZPOSPOLITA POLSKA”, “RP”, “50 ZŁ” and names of countries visited by the Pope
- Recto-verso – a motif of the Keys of Saint Peter completing from both sides
- Angle effect – the inscription “JP II” visible at an angle
- Optically variable ink – number “50” changing color
- Fluorescent elements visible under UV light
- Tactile feature – seven raised vertical lines for the visually impaired
The “50 zł – John Paul II” collector banknote is a unique item on the numismatic market – combining historical and spiritual value with advanced printing technology. It is not only a collector’s item but also a symbol of remembrance of the Polish Pope and his legacy.
Note: the banknote is sold without the official presentation folder.