While searching for an ancient road, a father-and-son duo, Sławomir and Szymon Milewski, stumbled upon an extraordinary treasure. The discovery of 17 rare coins, valued at over $120,000, has brought historical intrigue to the forests near Pomiechowek, a village north of Warsaw, Poland.
A Treasure in the Forest
This Article Includes
The Milewskis, members of the Triglav Historical and Research Association and the Polish “Husaria” Treasure Hunters Association, embarked on a mission to locate remnants of an ancient road. Despite their original goal, fate had other plans. As their metal detectors buzzed, the team unearthed what initially appeared to be silver coins.
What followed was a moment of shared excitement. “At first, there was a great noise,” recalls Mateusz Sygacz from the Polish Treasure Hunters Association. “Everyone realized we had discovered something incredible.”
Also Read: November 2024 Stimulus Payments: Which States Are Providing Financial Relief?
The Coins: Windows to a Turbulent Past
The collection consists of two types of silver coins: thalers and patagons, dating from the 16th and 17th centuries. Thalers, large coins widely used in Europe, are historically significant as the origin of the term “dollar.” Patagons, on the other hand, were minted in the Spanish Netherlands, covering regions of modern-day Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands.
One notable coin is a 1630 thaler featuring Sigismund III Vasa, a former king of Poland and Sweden. Another standout is a 1623 thaler, minted for only two years, making it an exceptionally rare find. The coins, which span from 1564 to 1641, were minted during the Thirty Years’ War—a period of devastating conflict in Europe.
Theories Behind the Hidden Cache
The treasure hunters pondered how such a diverse collection of coins ended up in a forest. One theory suggests the coins might have belonged to a soldier who lost his pay. Another posits that a merchant, wary of thieves, buried his valuables before visiting a nearby inn. Historical records indicate an inn existed about a kilometer away from the discovery site in the 16th century.
From Discovery to Museum Display
Understanding the importance of their find, the Milewskis turned the coins over to a local conservator of monuments. Efforts are underway to ensure the collection is displayed in a museum, allowing the public to admire and study these artifacts.
Also Read: Social Security Payment Delay: Why Group 2 Retirees Will Receive November Checks Later Than Expected
A Legacy Preserved
This remarkable discovery serves as a testament to the rich history buried beneath Poland’s soil. The Milewskis’ find offers a unique glimpse into a turbulent chapter of European history, showcasing the artistry and stories of those who lived through it.
By preserving these treasures for future generations, the discovery not only enriches Polish heritage but also highlights the enduring allure of uncovering the past.
