Hollandse stuiver van Karel V, 1506-1555 1521 - 1529

This is a Dutch stuiver of Charles V, dating from the 16th century, made from silver. The coin would have been produced through a process of die-striking, where the design is engraved into a hardened metal die. The silver would have been carefully measured, placed between the dies, and then hammered or pressed to transfer the image onto the coin. Look closely, and you can see the heraldic imagery and lettering, compressed into the small surface area. The very material of the coin speaks volumes about labor, politics and consumption. Silver, extracted from mines, processed and refined, represents a massive amount of coordinated work. This stuiver gave tangible form to economic exchange, while also representing the power and authority of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor and King of Spain. Considering the material and making of this stuiver helps us to understand its full meaning, as more than just currency, but as a crafted object that embodies history and power.