Hollandse penning van Floris V, 1256-1296 1256 - 1258

Editor: Here we have a coin, "Hollandse penning van Floris V, 1256-1296," dating back to between 1256 and 1258. What strikes me is how the material itself—probably silver—has aged, telling a story of circulation and use. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a concentrated locus of power and economic exchange rendered in miniature. Think about the process: mining, smelting, the creation of dies, striking the coin itself. Each step involves labor, reflecting the social hierarchy of the time, with Floris V ultimately benefiting from it. Editor: That makes sense. The very act of minting seems like a claim of authority. How does the materiality tie into that? Curator: Precisely. The metal's inherent value and the artistry imprinted on it transformed a raw material into a tool of economic and political control. This seemingly simple coin is the end product of a complex network of production, distribution, and consumption within a feudal system. The wear and tear speak to the coin’s participation in these circuits. Consider, also, where the silver came from; was it locally sourced or traded for, bringing in other economies into the mix? Editor: So, even something this small reveals a vast system? Curator: Absolutely! The artistry, though minimal, served a propagandistic function by immortalizing Floris V. Moreover, its value transcends its face value to also embody a political system. The materiality provides that unique and crucial insight into social practices. What about you, any fresh thoughts? Editor: It’s fascinating to consider this little coin as the physical embodiment of medieval power dynamics and trade routes. I'll definitely look at coins differently now! Curator: Indeed! By analyzing its materials and production, we unlock a much richer understanding of its place in history and society.