Duit van Overijssel 1770

This anonymous 'Duit van Overijssel' coin, minted in 1770, encapsulates the intricate relationship between commerce, identity, and belief in the Dutch Republic. The coin's imagery offers a glimpse into the values and aspirations of the province of Overijssel. We see a depiction of Spes, the Roman goddess of hope, standing tall with an anchor, symbolizing stability and security. The Latin inscription "Spes In Deo" translates to "Hope in God", reflecting the religious underpinnings of the society. On the reverse, the coat of arms of Overijssel—a crowned lion—asserts regional identity and authority. Think about the daily transactions this coin facilitated. For many it represented survival and aspiration, but also of broader systems of power and governance. As such, this small object is charged with the weight of historical, cultural, and personal narratives.