Netherlands, Holland Scheepjesschelling ‏1736/35

Golden Ship-Money Shilling Holland – 1736/5 (Extremely rare, year-date modification)

A particularly special and exceptional specimen of a golden ship-money shilling, struck to the weight of a double ducat (6.96 g, Ø 26.5 mm). Minted by mint master Mattheus Sonnemans, with a unique year-date modification 1736/5. According to Tom Passon (2.28.116) this belongs to the extremely rare variants of Dutch ship-money shillings.

Obverse:
The imposing crowned provincial coat of arms of Holland graces the between the figures 6 – S, with the year 1736 above it (traces of 5). Surrounded by the Latin inscription:
MO : NO : ORD : HOLL : ET WEST-FRI
(New mint of the provinces Holland and West Friesland – 6 Stuiver)

Reverse:
A warship sailing before the wind, with the Dutch flag at the stern, symbolizes the Republic and its mighty fleet, which contributed to the independence of the Northern Netherlands. The ship is encircled by the Latin motto:
VIGILATE DEO CONFIDENTES
(Be vigilant, trusting in God)
This motto dates from the time of the Revolt (16th century) and was later the heraldic motto of the States of Holland – still the motto of the current province of South Holland.

Extra information:
This splendid gold strike reveals, down to the finest detail, the beautiful engravings and the subtle year-date modification. Gold ship-money shillings from before 1750 are extraordinarily rare, making this specimen a unique showpiece that immediately attracts attention.