Deutgen van de stad Utrecht, 1514 1514

This is a 'Deutgen', a coin from the city of Utrecht, dating back to 1514. In the early 16th century, Utrecht was a city navigating complex political waters, caught between its allegiance to the Holy Roman Empire and its own regional ambitions. Consider the weight of this tiny object, just 0.62 grams. It represents more than mere monetary value. It’s a symbol of Utrecht's civic identity and economic power. It reflects the city's aspirations for autonomy amidst larger European conflicts. Who did this Deutgen serve? What kind of transactions was it used for? What kind of person would have held it? Was it a wealthy merchant, or a person of more modest means? The coin's materiality speaks to the everyday lives of people in Utrecht, offering a tangible connection to their experiences of trade, labor, and community. Its modest size belies the grander narratives of power, identity, and resilience it carries.