Vroedschapspenning van de stad 's-Hertogenbosch 1725

This is a silver 'Vroedschapspenning' or council coin from the city of 's-Hertogenbosch, made by Theodorus Casparus van Berckel. The circular form and use of precious metal immediately suggest currency, but this object was created for presentation. It would have been made using a die, a carefully engraved block of hardened steel used to impress a design. The city view on one side and the building, likely the town hall, on the other, are crisply rendered through skilled engraving. Note the Latin inscription, too. The silver gives the coin not only monetary but also symbolic value. As a material, it signifies wealth, power, and civic pride. But beyond its economic value, we can appreciate the artistry and handcraft in its production. The coin embodies the ideals of craftsmanship, where skill and tradition meet to create objects that represent a city’s identity, and the blend of utility and symbolic representation.