Bevrediging van Gent, rekenpenning geslagen ter ere van Karel V, Duits keizer 1540

This small, 16th century coin is a "rekenpenning" (counting penny) minted in 1540 in Ghent. This silver coin depicts the profile of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, on the obverse side, and a lion holding a shield on the reverse. This coin, currently part of the Rijksmuseum collection, serves as a historical artifact, showcasing a monetary system during the reign of Charles V. It is a testament to the artistry of the anonymous artist who created the intricate details of the design, capturing the likeness of a powerful figure.