Father-Son Duo Unearths $120K Treasure Trove of 16th and 17th-Century Coins in Poland

In an extraordinary discovery, a father and son from the Triglav Historical and Research Association unearthed a valuable hoard of rare 16th and 17th-century coins near Pomiechówek, Poland.

A father-son duo from Poland has unearthed a valuable hoard of rare 16th and 17th-century coins near Pomiechówek. The discovery, part of an exploration initially focused on locating an ancient Roman trade route, is valued at over $120,000 and ranks among the region's most significant treasures.

S?awomir and Szymon Milewscy stumbled upon 17 silver coins from the 16th and 17th centuries during the expedition led by the Husaria Treasure Hunters Association. The hoard includes a diverse selection of rare European thalers from Saxony, Brandenburg, and the Netherlands. Among the notable pieces are a 1630 Sigismund III Vasa thaler minted in Toru?, Poland, and a John II thaler from the Duchy of Palatinate, minted in 1623.

Archaeologist Piotr Duda described the discovery as “unbelievable,” highlighting its historic and material value. He said, “This is probably one of the largest finds of its kind ever discovered in Poland, and certainly in Mazovia. The historical significance is immense, and its estimated material value is half a million z?otys.”

The origins of the hoard are still a mystery, but Duda has some interesting theories. He said, “In 1655 there was a battle at Nowy Dwór Mazowiecki. The Swedes clashed with the Polish Crown troops of the First Polish Republic.” He suggests that a participant in the conflict might have hidden the treasure, perhaps a mercenary of German descent, as both sides hired many mercenaries.”

Another theory suggests that a wealthy merchant may have buried the coins for safekeeping. “An inn once stood here,” said Duda. “Perhaps something happened, and the person couldn't return for the deposit. These are all just assumptions.”