Just issued by the Polish Mint in June of 2005, this stunning piece commemorates the life of Pope John Paul II, Poland's favorite son. Elected pope on 16 October 1978 after John Paul I's death one week into his papacy, Karol Wojtyla became the first non-Italian pontiff in over 450 years and the first Slavic pope. Remembered as the most public pontiff in history Pope John Paul II maintained himself in the public eye, visiting over 100 different countries, speaking forcefully on behalf of human rights, and surviving an assassination attempt which he responded to by offering his forgiveness to his assailant. Badly disabled by Parkinson's disease John Paul II passed away on the 2nd of April in 2005 and was succeeded by Pope Benedict XVI on 19 April 2005.This coin sold out at the Mint the day it was issued, so if you want one, this is the time to get it!