Coin, Poland, Grosz
1949 - MS(64) - Aluminum - KM:39
Sold
Eagle with wings open.
Value at upper right of sprig
116,000 were struck at Warsaw, the remainder at Budapest.
Aluminum
This common metal’s name comes from the Latin alumen meaning alum. Aluminum is a light metal with a bright and silvery appearance. Its use in its natural form is actually a recent development, as the procedure for extracting aluminum from bauxite was only perfected in the 19th century.
It is not frequently used for coins, with the exception of small denominations (centimes and other cents), because it is easier to find during periods of shortages or crisis. It is also used for tokens, emergency money, small coins, and certain medals.
A malleable medal, it has a great affinity towards oxygen and forms a protective layer of oxide on the surface when exposed to air.