5 drachmen uit Griekenland van koning Georgios I, 1875 1875

This is a silver 5 drachma coin from Greece, minted in 1875, during the reign of King George I. Its imagery provides a fascinating window into the political and cultural landscape of the time. The coin features the royal coat of arms, dominated by a prominent cross. This is no accident. As Greece sought to establish its identity in the 19th century, it strategically deployed powerful symbols of its past. The cross, connecting the new nation to its Orthodox Christian heritage, became a potent emblem of cultural continuity and national unity. The choice to put royal imagery on currency reflects the importance of monarchy in Greece's political structure during this period. As historians, we can use such coins to trace the evolution of national identity and understand the role of institutions in shaping cultural values. Studying archival documents, political speeches, and even popular songs from the time can further illuminate the coin's cultural significance.