Westfriese dubbele stuiver, 1787 1787

Editor: So, this is a Westfriese dubbele stuiver from 1787. It looks to be a coin, probably metal. I'm immediately drawn to its well-worn appearance, giving it an authentic, historical feel. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: This coin is interesting as a form of material culture. Consider its purpose. It wasn't just a piece of metal; it was a symbol of West Frisian autonomy in a time of political and economic upheaval. 1787 was a turbulent year in the Netherlands. The Patriot movement was challenging the established order. Does the date give you any clues about it's socio-political context? Editor: It does! I'm now thinking about how a coin, something so everyday, could actually represent this push for autonomy. Did the design of the coin – the inscription ‘West Frisiae’ – carry any political weight at the time? Curator: Absolutely. The very act of producing and circulating its own coinage was a statement of regional identity and a subtle act of defiance against central authority. The coin becomes a tool for shaping public consciousness and solidifying a regional identity. Who, therefore, might use, carry and see a coin like this? Editor: Shopkeepers, travelers, locals, people from all walks of life! It's fascinating how this small, everyday object could have such a big impact. Curator: Exactly. And think about what images or symbols were *not* on the coin, what the *absence* of royal imagery signified during that specific historical moment. What do you make of it now? Editor: It is not just money; it's a pocket-sized political statement, widely distributed. I definitely see the power dynamics encoded in its creation. I will remember this coin differently now, with a greater insight into history and societal norms. Thanks!