Guildmark

Netherlands, 1700-1809 (handwritten on the case that it came in)
front: PASSEMENTEN LINT WERCKERSKNEGTS
reverse: L? Crist? Seidel
brass?

Very little information available about this - I've never seen the piece documented before. The design is of a weaving shuttle carrying thread for a lacemaking machine surmounted by a crown. The reverse is engraved with what I assume is the owner's name, with a coat of arms above. The lions, shield, and crown are the Dutch coat of arms. From 1815 to 1807 lions were facing and wore crowns. They seem to be facing, but I can't tell if they have crowns. Since this form was not used prior to 1815, I think that sets a lower date for the coin.

An interesting challenge to track down.

first posted 6/7/2009