1 Zloty Polski - Aleksandr I

Historical Context: The 1 Zloty Polski of Aleksandr I, minted 1818-1825, arose from the post-Napoleonic era. The 1815 Congress of Vienna established the Congress Kingdom of Poland, a semi-autonomous entity in personal union with the Russian Empire, ruled by Tsar Aleksandr I. This coinage balanced traditional Polish Zloty identity with Russian imperial authority, symbolizing limited Polish autonomy under a foreign monarch.

Artistry: While the engraver is unrecorded, the coin's design adheres to early 19th-century Neoclassical artistic principles. The obverse typically features a dignified portrait bust of Emperor Aleksandr I, rendered with classical restraint. The reverse proudly displays the crowned Polish eagle, a powerful national symbol, often bearing a shield with the Russian double-headed eagle or Congress Kingdom arms. The denomination "1 ZLOTY POLSKI" and date are elegantly incorporated, blending national pride and imperial oversight.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .593 fine silver (4.46 grams, 21.6 mm), this coin presents specific technical assessment considerations. Key high-points for wear and strike quality include Aleksandr I's hair, ear, and cheekbone on the obverse, and the eagle's breast feathers, crown, and wing tips on the reverse. Due to the relatively low silver fineness and flan size, strikes can vary, often exhibiting weakness in finer details of the portrait or plumage. Collectors should examine planchet quality and rim integrity carefully for inconsistencies.