Overijsselse duit, 1703 1703

This is an Overijsselse duit, a coin made in 1703 by the province of Overijssel. In the early 18th century, the Dutch Republic was a major player in global trade and colonialism. Coins like this weren’t just currency; they were symbols of power and identity. Overijssel was one of the seven provinces that formed the Dutch Republic, each with its own distinct identity and coinage. This duit reflects Overijssel's economic and political status within the Republic. Consider the weight and size of this small coin; it represents the tangible, everyday economics of the time. The issuing of coinage was a political act, especially during a period marked by wars and economic competition. The coin bears witness to the local governance and the complex relationships between provinces within the Republic. Think about how something as simple as a coin could shape perceptions of value and belonging. It reminds us of the intricate ways in which identity and history are embedded in the objects we often overlook.