The National Bank of Poland has unveiled its latest collector’s coin, with a limited mintage of up to 10,000 pieces. The coin pays homage to the legendary Major Henryk Dobrzański Hubal, war hero, freedom fighter, and champion equestrian
The National Bank of Poland has unveiled its latest collector’s coin, with a limited mintage of up to 10,000 pieces. The coin pays homage to the legendary Major Henryk Dobrzański Hubal, war hero, freedom fighter, and champion equestrian
Renowned for his equestrian prowess, Major Dobrzański Hubal led a remarkable life, from triumphs in prestigious horseback riding competitions to his pivotal role in the defense of Poland during its darkest hours.
Henryk Dobrzański, born on June 22, 1897, in Jasło, hailed from a family with a strong legacy of resisting foreign oppression. Joining the Polish Legions at 17, he served in the 2nd Uhlans Regiment, enduring internment after their escape in 1918. Decorated with the Silver Cross of the Virtuti Militari and four Crosses of Valor, he continued his military service post-war.
In 1924, he achieved success in equestrian competitions, including the Nations Cup in Nice. Despite retiring in July 1939, he returned to active duty the following month and became deputy commander during World War II.
In 1924, he achieved success in equestrian competitions, including the Nations Cup in Nice. Despite retiring in July 1939, he returned to active duty the following month and became deputy commander during World War II.
Following the Nazi and Soviet aggressions in September 1939, he led resistance efforts in Warsaw under the alias “Hubal.” His unit, the Separate Unit of the Polish Army, engaged in successful operations but faced retaliation, with the Germans burning hundreds of homesteads and killing civilians.
Hubal perished in combat on April 30, 1940, his burial place remaining unknown. Posthumously promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 1966 and awarded the Gold Cross of the Virtuti Militari in 2010, his courage remains emblematic of military valor and patriotic resilience.
Released on February 13, the silver coin, with a denomination of 10 zł, honors Major Dobrzański Hubal. Available at NBP Regional Branches and the Kolekcjoner online store, the coin is made of 0.999 fine silver, measuring 32.00 millimeters in diameter and weighing 31.10 grams. The obverse features Major Dobrzański Hubal on horseback with a drawn sword, while the reverse shows him in uniform with the Silver Cross of the Order of Virtuti Militari.
