Gouden schild uit Holland van Willem V, 1345-1389 1388 - 1389

This is a gold shield from Holland, minted between 1345 and 1389, under the authority of Willem V, Count of Holland and Zeeland. Though small in scale, this coin offers a fascinating glimpse into the social and political landscape of the medieval Low Countries. The imagery on the coin is rich with symbolism. We see a knightly figure, likely representing Willem V himself, set against a gothic architectural backdrop. The use of gold, of course, signifies wealth and power, while the shield itself speaks to protection and defense. Think about the cultural context: Holland was a region of growing economic importance, and its rulers needed to project an image of strength and stability. Coins such as this were not just currency; they were propaganda, designed to convey authority and legitimacy. To fully understand this coin, we can delve into archival records, study the history of Dutch coinage, and examine the political events of Willem V's reign. The meaning of art always depends on its context.