Groningse jager, 1604 1604

This silver coin, known as a ‘Groningse jager’, was made in the city of Groningen in 1604. Minted from silver, its creation involved skilled metalworking techniques to precisely stamp the design onto the coin's surface. The material itself, silver, speaks volumes about the economic and social context of its time. As a precious metal, silver signified wealth and stability, and facilitated trade and commerce. Each coin represented a tangible measure of value. Beyond its monetary function, the ‘Groningse jager’ is a cultural artifact, reflecting the artistry and craftsmanship of the era. The meticulous engraving and the choice of imagery convey a sense of civic pride. Looking closely, you’ll notice the amount of labor that went into producing this small object, from the mining and refining of the silver to the die-cutting and stamping processes. This coin embodies not only economic exchange, but also the intersection of material, making, and social context.