50 PLZ #430

Front

The front depicts an abstract geometric design featuring the Polish eagle emblem at center, stylized in a modernist manner with guilloché patterns. The note bears the inscription 'NARODOWY BANK POLSKI' (National Bank of Poland) and denomination '50 PIĘĆDZIESIĄT ZŁOTYCH' (50 Fifty Złoty). This design represents the late Communist-era Polish currency issued under the People's Republic of Poland before the democratic transition and currency reforms of the 1990s.

Back

Karol Świerczewski (1897–1947), Polish and Soviet military officer, Communist general who served in the Spanish Civil War (as 'General Walter') and later in the Polish People's Army. He was Minister of National Defence of Poland and a Hero of the Soviet Union. Świerczewski was assassinated in 1947 in southeastern Poland, likely by the Ukrainian Insurgent Army. The note shows him in military uniform with his characteristic peaked cap, alongside the Polish eagle emblem. His appearance on this 1988 note reflects the Communist government's veneration of Soviet-aligned military figures.

History

This 50 złotych note was issued on December 1, 1988 ('WARSZAWA, 1 GRUDNIA 1988' printed on back) by the Narodowy Bank Polski during the final years of the Polish People's Republic. The series featuring Karol Świerczewski was introduced in 1975 and continued through 1989. This particular variant (P-142c) is distinguished by its signatures and serial number format. The note circulated during a period of economic crisis and hyperinflation that led to currency reforms. It was demonetized when Poland introduced the new złoty (PLN) at a rate of 10,000 old złotych to 1 new złoty in 1995, following the democratic transition. The choice of Świerczewski as a banknote subject was controversial even during the Communist period and became more so after 1989, as his role in Soviet-imposed Communism was re-evaluated.