Overijsselse florijn van 28 stuiver, 1685 1685

The province of Overijssel produced this silver florin in 1685, a coin of 28 stuivers. Notice first the circular form, which orients the composition around a central emblem—a complex heraldic shield divided into quadrants. The very structure of the coin reflects a formal hierarchy, where the arrangement of symbols and text work together to communicate power. The tactile quality of the metal, worn smooth with age, invites us to consider the countless transactions it facilitated. Yet, its intrinsic value lies not just in the silver but in the signs it bears. These symbols would have been instantly recognizable, providing assurance of its worth and legitimacy. Think of it as an early form of coded communication, where design and material intersect to project authority. This florin is a testament to how simple shapes and arrangements can convey intricate messages.