Overijsselse bezemstuiver, 1628 1628

This is a small silver coin, called Overijsselse bezemstuiver, made in 1628 by the province of Overijssel. Consider the fraught historical context of this coin. It emerged during the Eighty Years' War, when the Dutch Republic was fighting for independence from Spain. As such, it embodies the intersection of economics, regional identity, and national struggle. The coin's small size speaks volumes about the daily lives of ordinary people and their participation in the burgeoning capitalist economy, even amidst war. It reflects the province's unique identity and its contribution to the larger Dutch narrative of independence and prosperity. As you look at it, think about its symbolism. The coin is more than just a piece of currency; it is a tangible reminder of a community's resilience.