Overijsselse duit, 1753 1753

This is a copper Overijsselse duit, made in 1753 by the province of Overijssel. The coin features an inscription of 'OVER IJSSEL' encircled by a wreath, symbols steeped in historical and cultural significance. The wreath, in particular, echoes ancient motifs of victory and honor, recalling the laurel wreaths of Roman emperors and athletes. It is a symbol of triumph, but here it frames not a victorious leader, but the name of a region. This wreath motif, once adorning the heads of gods and emperors, has been secularized and democratized over time. Here, the wreath transforms into a symbol of regional pride and identity. This transition reflects our collective memory and cultural evolution, where symbols adapt and take on new layers of meaning across time. This coin connects us to the past and reminds us of the enduring power of symbols to shape our understanding of community and identity.