Hollandse munt of duit. c. 1576 - 1579

This is a small, worn coin, a "Hollandse munt of duit," made by an anonymous artist. It represents far more than its monetary value. It's a window into the economic and social structures of its time, reflecting the daily lives and struggles of ordinary people in Holland. Consider the hands that exchanged this coin. Perhaps it was a wage for a day's labor, a transaction for food, or a contribution to the ever-present taxes imposed by those in power. This simple object embodies the intersection of individual lives and the broader political economy. The coin's design, though faded, hints at the symbols of authority and national identity. The coat of arms, likely representing the Dutch province of Holland, speaks to a sense of regional pride and allegiance. What narratives of power and belonging are subtly embedded here? What does it mean for the artist not to be known? Reflect on the countless stories this coin could tell. It's a tangible link to the past, a silent witness to the ebb and flow of history.