Zutphense duit, 1687 1687

The City of Zutphen minted this duit in 1687, a small coin that tells a larger story about trade, power, and identity in the Dutch Republic. The late 17th century was a time of economic flourishing for the Netherlands, driven by its dominance in global commerce. This coin, though modest in size and value, symbolizes the intricate networks of exchange that defined the era. The coat of arms on the coin, a proud emblem of Zutphen, would have been instantly recognizable, fostering a sense of civic pride and regional identity among its users. Consider how the simple act of handling this coin—buying bread, paying for passage—connected individuals to the larger economic and political systems of their time. It’s a reminder that even the smallest objects can carry significant cultural weight.