A medal of great rarity, which in this version has probably never been listed at Polish auctions, and is known to be a single piece in the international Coinarchives database.
It is a medal minted to commemorate the restoration of the Polish throne by Augustus II the Strong.
It was made by the Dresden-based medallic artist Heinrich Paul Groskurt in several versions. The present one is 44 mm in diameter, minted in silver.
It is one of the medals emphasizingthe "prudence" of Augustus. Misinterpreted by Raczynski as medals from the war with King Charles II. In fact, being an issue already after the battle of Poltava won against Sweden and his return to Poland.
Very interesting in terms of symbolism, especially against the background of the often downright propagandistic medals of this ruler (e.g.,'joined with Poles by blood'). Depicting a crowned column (a symbol of permanence, the strength of the state), entwined with a snake (a symbol of cunning, but also wisdom), above which floats a ribbon with the maxim 'Fulcitur Prudentia'. The words can be interpreted as"prudence (or wisdom) sustains." In the context of the Vanitas ("vanity above vanities") motif popular in Baroque art, we can see in it an allusion to the wise rebirth of Augustus after the loss of power, resulting from his prudent action.
Very rare by type alone (last year, a print in copper sold for 21,600 zloty). Absent from Meseburger's famous collection in silver.
Medal with no signs of pendant or binding, with good relief, only slightly polished.
Piece from the Legutko and Stańczykowski collection (complete with envelope).
