Hollandse penning van Floris V, 1256-1296 1293 - 1296

Editor: So, this is a Dutch coin, “Hollandse penning van Floris V,” dating from between 1293 and 1296. It’s a small, silver coin. It's incredibly detailed for something so tiny and old! What do you make of this piece? Curator: Well, this isn't just a coin, it's a statement of power. The fact that Floris V, Count of Holland and Zeeland, chose to mint coins bearing his likeness and titles reveals much about the socio-political landscape. Consider the audience for this image: merchants, nobles, even the common person handling day-to-day transactions. What message do you think the image projects to each of them? Editor: That's interesting. To merchants, it's perhaps a sign of stable currency and trade, and to nobles maybe a reminder of Floris's authority? Curator: Precisely. And the 'history painting' aspect? Don't forget coins weren't *just* money, they were carefully designed objects circulating propaganda. How would seeing this affect perceptions of his reign? Coins offered repetitive visual reassurance about leadership, a constant symbolic encounter for subjects. Editor: I suppose continuously seeing his face might normalize his authority? Were these coins like the social media of the 13th century? Curator: A brilliant analogy! Currency subtly but constantly reinforced social hierarchy and governance ideals. Did all rulers enjoy that level of persistent, visual control? Editor: No, of course not. It’s fascinating to think about art functioning so directly within a political structure. Curator: Indeed. It's a tangible, metal echo of a time, full of royal ambition. Reflecting on its circulation is key to how we appreciate power and public perception back then. Editor: It gives me so much more to think about next time I see old coins on display. Curator: Likewise, I will consider now the 'like' rate, in thirteenth century terms.