Hollandse leeuw van Willem VI, 1404-1417 1411 - 1414

This is a silver coin, the Hollandse leeuw van Willem VI, produced between 1404 and 1417, under the reign of Willem VI van Henegouwen. Its circular form and muted silver hue give it a tactile, almost humble presence. The coin features a heraldic lion, a symbol rife with socio-political meaning. The lion is not merely a representation but a signifier of power, identity, and historical narrative. The choice of silver as a medium brings another dimension. Its intrinsic value and malleability reflect economic and artistic considerations. The circular boundary of the coin acts as a frame, defining and containing the symbolic space within. This boundary emphasizes the coin’s role as a discrete unit of value, a self-contained symbol. The act of minting this coin represents more than just currency production; it's a formal assertion of ducal authority. The coin remains a fascinating nexus where art, power, and everyday life intersect.