Catalog
| Issuer | Zeeland, Province of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1614-1628 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Stuiver (1/20) |
| Currency | Gulden (1581-1795) |
| Composition | Billon (.271 silver) |
| Weight | 0.86 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#28 , HPM#Ze 90 |
| Obverse description | Name of the province in three lines, mint mark above, date below, all within wreath. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
ZEE LAN DIA · · 1619 · (Translation: Zeeland) |
| Reverse description | Bundle of arrows divides value, within wreath. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
1 S (Translation: 1 Stuiver) |
| Edge | |
| Mint |
♜ Middelburg, Netherlands(1100-1798) |
| Mintage |
? ♜ - - 1614 ♜ - - 1619 ♜ - - 1619 ♜ - Error date 1691 - 1628 ♜ - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1002391320 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 1 Stuiver 'Bezemstuiver' was issued by the Province of Zeeland between 1614 and 1628, a pivotal period within the Dutch Golden Age. This era spanned the Twelve Years' Truce and the resumption of the Eighty Years' War against Spain. Zeeland, a crucial maritime province of the Dutch Republic, required low-denomination currency for its expanding mercantile economy. The coin's issuance highlights provincial minting autonomy. Its 'Bezemstuiver' nickname symbolically reflects the Republic's burgeoning naval supremacy and ambition to 'sweep' the seas clear.
Artistry: The 'Bezemstuiver' design is characteristic of utilitarian provincial coinage from the early 17th century, prioritizing clear symbolism. While a specific engraver is not typically known for such billon issues, the style aligns with the functional aesthetic prevalent in the Dutch Republic. The obverse commonly features Zeeland's provincial arms—a lion emerging from waves—while the reverse prominently displays the defining broom symbol, often with the denomination or date. This broom, the coin's namesake, is a powerful icon of Dutch maritime power and national resolve.
Technical/Grading: Struck in billon (.271 silver) and weighing 0.86 grams, these Stuivers are prone to wear and strike imperfections. Key high-points for assessing grade include the lion's mane and waves on the obverse, and the individual bristles of the broom on the reverse. Due to rapid production, weak strikes, off-center alignment, and planchet flaws are common. Corrosion is frequently observed on these billon issues, which can obscure finer details. A well-struck example with clear legends and minimal wear is highly desirable.