Twelve emergency coins from Dutch cities Possibly 1577
balthasarwijntgens
silver
natural stone pattern
3d sculpting
silver
3d printed part
sculpture
detailed texture
sculptural image
3d shape
stoneware
wearable design
ceramic
This silver coin, possibly dated 1577, is an example of an "emergency coin" minted by Balthasar Wijntgens during a period of economic crisis in the Netherlands. These coins, known as "noodmunten" in Dutch, were often irregularly shaped and lacked standardized designs, reflecting the desperate need for currency. The coin's obverse features a coat of arms, possibly of a Dutch city, while the reverse is plain. These coins are a fascinating example of the creativity and resourcefulness employed during times of economic hardship.
Comments
The cities besieged by the Spanish army for having revolted against Spanish rule in the 1570s experienced severe shortages of virtually everything, including money to pay the soldiers. Emergency money was therefore minted. Gold, silver, paper: anything in the cities under siege could be used as temporary currency.
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