Rijksgestichten Ommerschans en Veenhuizen, huismunt geslagen op last van de Maatschappij van Weldadigheid ter waarde van ½ cent 1848

This small, silver coin is a half-cent piece minted for the "Maatschappij van Weldadigheid" (Society of Beneficence), an organization that established colonies for the poor and destitute in the Netherlands. The coin, dated 1848, is part of a series of small, circular tokens used as internal currency within these colonies. The design features the initials "V & J" on one side and the inscription "R.Gesticht 1/2 C." (for "Rijksgestichten" or "State Institutions") on the other, offering a glimpse into the social and economic practices of these unique communities. This small piece of numismatic art is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, offering insight into a chapter of Dutch history that aimed to improve social welfare.