Name: 1794 Poland 100 Złotych Banknote
SKU: AKB-1
Availability: InStock

1794 Poland 100 Złotych Banknote

The 1794 100 Złotych banknote is one of the most historically significant paper money issues of Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, produced during the dramatic final chapter of the state’s existence. Issued amid the Kościuszko Uprising (1794), this note represents Poland’s urgent effort to finance national defense and preserve sovereignty in the face of partition by neighboring powers. Printed as part of an emergency currency program, the 100 Złotych denomination was a high-value note, intended primarily for military provisioning, government payments, and large commercial transactions. Its issuance reflects the severe fiscal pressures of wartime and the transition toward modern paper currency in Central and Eastern Europe. The design is austere yet symbolic, emphasizing state authority and legitimacy rather than ornamentation. Typical examples feature bold typography, official inscriptions, and authorization text underscoring its acceptance as legal tender. Due to the technological limitations and hurried production conditions, printing irregularities, uneven impressions, and paper inconsistencies are commonly observed and are considered characteristic of the issue. Surviving examples are exceptionally scarce, largely due to short circulation, political collapse following the failed uprising, and widespread redemption or destruction after the Third Partition of Poland (1795). As a result, even heavily circulated notes are prized by collectors. Higher-grade survivors are rare and command strong premiums, especially those retaining clear text, intact margins, and legible signatures or control marks. Today, the 1794 100 Złotych banknote is highly sought after by collectors of early European paper money, Polish national history, and revolutionary-era financial instruments. It stands as a powerful tangible witness to Poland’s struggle for independence and the birth of paper currency under extreme historical circumstances.

Historical Background

The 1794 Poland 100 Zlotych banknote is one of the most important early paper money issues in Polish history. Authorities issued it during the Kościuszko Uprising, a national movement that aimed to protect Poland’s independence in the late 18th century. Because of this, the banknote carries strong historical and symbolic meaning.

Purpose and Circulation

At that time, Poland urgently needed funds to support military and civil efforts. Therefore, the government introduced emergency paper currency, including this high-denomination note. The 1794 Poland 100 Zlotych banknote circulated under difficult conditions and helped finance the uprising. As a result, it became a key part of Poland’s early financial system.

Design Characteristics

The design reflects the seriousness of the period. Instead of heavy decoration, it focuses on clear text and official markings. Moreover, this simple layout helped build trust during a time of crisis. Because of this approach, the note serves as both currency and historical document.

Rarity and Survival

Very few examples survived to the present day. Paper banknotes from the 18th century often suffered from heavy use, poor storage, and political turmoil. Therefore, collectors rarely encounter original pieces. The low survival rate makes this note especially desirable.

Collector Importance

Collectors value this banknote for its age, rarity, and direct link to a defining moment in Polish history. In addition, it fits perfectly into collections of early European banknotes or revolutionary-era finance. Overall, the 1794 Poland 100 Zlotych banknote offers strong historical depth and long-term collectible appeal.

PLEASE NOTE: The assessment of the condition of the banknote is our professional opinion only. In all instances, we kindly request you to assess the condition independently. For this, we provide high-quality photos and, in certain cases, video footage. If you have any questions or need additional photos, please contact us.