Huismunt geslagen op last van de Maatschappij van Weldadigheid ter waarde van ½ cent, ten behoeve van de Gewone Koloniën 1818 - 1859

This small, lead coin, created between 1818 and 1859, was used as currency in the Dutch penal colonies. The coin is inscribed with "M.W.W." (Maatschappij van Weldadigheid, the Society of Benevolence) and "½ C" (half a cent). The other side displays the initials "G.K" (Gewone Koloniën, ordinary colonies). These coins served as a form of internal currency within the colonies, highlighting the unique social and economic realities of this period in Dutch history. The coin's small size and lead composition are indicative of its utilitarian nature, representing a humble yet important aspect of the colonial system.