Hollandse penning van Floris V, 1256-1296 1275 - 1284

This is a Dutch penny made during the reign of Floris V, sometime between 1256 and 1296. The coin, barely larger than a centimetre, presents a study in constrained space and symbolic communication. Notice how the circular form dictates the composition. Within the rough-hewn edges, we find concentric rings of inscription framing a stylized bust, likely of Floris himself. The texture of the metal bears witness to its age and handling, each scratch and imperfection telling a story of circulation and economic exchange. The image and text, though rudimentary by today's standards, served as potent signifiers of power and legitimacy. The coin isn't just currency; it’s a carefully designed object that embodies the fusion of artistry, authority, and utility. Even in its diminished state, the coin invites us to consider how objects encode cultural values and power dynamics.