Marta Kubišová Commemorative Silver Medal (2017)

This is a fine silver commemorative medal issued in 2017 by the Czech Mint (Česká mincovna, a.s.) honoring the iconic singer Marta Kubišová. The medal is made of Ag 999 silver with a weight of 31.1 grams (1 Troy ounce) and a diameter of 37 mm. It features a proof finish with a milled edge, exhibiting a high-contrast aesthetic between frosted motifs and mirror-like fields. The obverse depicts a stylized portrait of Marta Kubišová, designed by artist Roman Shamilyan. The item is housed in its original blue velvet-lined presentation case and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (Certifikát pravosti). Notably, the certificate appears to be hand-signed in purple ink, potentially adding significant collector value. The certificate specifies a limited mintage of 1,000 pieces. The condition appears to be Mint State as it is preserved in a protective acrylic capsule. The medal represents a blend of contemporary numismatic craftsmanship and Czech cultural history, celebrating a figure associated with the Prague Spring and the Velvet Revolution.

I have carefully examined the high-resolution images of the 2017 Marta Kubišová Commemorative Silver Medal. Based on visual inspection, the medal appears to be in its original Mint State condition, preserved within its protective acrylic capsule without evidence of 'milk spots' or oxidation commonly found in storage. The 1 Troy ounce Ag 999 silver content provides a solid intrinsic floor, but its true value lies in its numismatic and cultural significance. The mintage of 1,000 pieces is moderately scarce, creating a competitive market among collectors of Czech historical figures and music icons. A primary value driver here is the Certificate of Authenticity, which appears to feature a hand-signed signature in purple ink. If verified as an original signature by Kubišová rather than a pre-printed facsimile, this adds a significant 'crossover' premium for autograph collectors. Current market demand for Czech Mint limited editions remains steady, particularly for figures associated with the Velvet Revolution. While this image-based assessment suggests high authenticity, a definitive appraisal requires physical inspection to confirm the signature is 'wet ink' and to detect any microscopic hairlines or PVC damage that may have occurred to the proof surfaces. To finalize authentication, I would recommend checking for the 'ČM' hallmark on the edge or field and potentially performing a non-destructive XRF test to verify the .999 silver purity. Provenance documentation regarding the purchase from the Czech Mint would further bolster its marketability.