Obverse: In the center of the medal is the coat of arms of Pope John Paul II – a shield with a cross and the letter M, symbolizing the Virgin Mary. Behind the shield are two crossed keys, above it – the papal tiara. Around the edge is the inscription JAN PAWEŁ II – KAROL WOJTYŁA and the dates 1920 – 2005, marking his birth and death years.
Reverse: The center depicts Pope John Paul II with raised hands greeting the faithful, with the silhouette of St. Peter’s Basilica behind him. Above, in a semicircle, is the Latin inscription HABEMUS PAPAM and the date 16.10.1978, marking his election as pope. At the bottom – a decorative symbol.
About the medal: This commemorative silver medal was struck in Poland in 2005 to honor Pope John Paul II (Karol Wojtyła). It was issued to commemorate his election as pope on October 16, 1978, and his long pontificate. The medal is struck in Ag 500 silver, weighs 15 g, and has a diameter of 34 mm.
