Ferdinand I, koning van Bohemen en Hongarije 1529

This small silver coin portrays Ferdinand I, King of Bohemia and Hungary. Though the artist is unknown, this coin offers insight into the construction and projection of power and identity in 16th-century Europe. Ferdinand I, a member of the House of Hapsburg, sought to consolidate his authority through strategic alliances and displays of sovereignty. The coin embodies this effort, presenting Ferdinand in profile, adorned with royal regalia, which was a traditional way to symbolize power and legitimacy. The inclusion of the Bohemian and Hungarian coat of arms is also a reflection of the complex political landscape of the time, marked by dynastic ambitions and territorial disputes. Reflect on the weight and feel of this coin. It’s a personal object that creates an emotional connection to a distant past, while also symbolizing how rulers sought to shape their public image.