8 Reales (United Amsterdam Company) 1601 front 8 Reales (United Amsterdam Company) 1601 back
8 Reales (United Amsterdam Company) 1601 photo
© Heritage Auctions

8 Reales United Amsterdam Company

1601 year
Silver (.917) 27.31 g 39 mm
Description
Issuer
Indonesia › Netherlands East Indies (1601-1949)
Period
United Amsterdam Company (1596-1601)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
1601
Value
8 Reales (1)
Currency
Daalder (1601-1694)
Composition
Silver (.917)
Weight
27.31 g
Diameter
39 mm
Shape
Round
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#21736
Rarity index
92%

Reverse

Crowned Amsterdam arms with lion supporters

Script: Latin

Comment

The First Trade Dollar of the Netherlands East Indies

United Amsterdam Company Daalder of 8 Reales 1601 Dordrecht mint, Mintmaster Jacob Janszn. de Jonge, Dav-413, Salveson-11, Delm-1206 (R2), Scholten-1 (RR). Of great rarity, this crown represents the earliest trade dollar of the Netherlands in its first decade of overseas expansion into the East Indies, a charming design described literally by the legends: "The Arms of Holland and the City of Amsterdam." Only a year after the production of this type was authorized, the trade companies of Holland and Zeeland were consolidated into the United East India Company.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the 8 Reales coin from the United Amsterdam Company is that it was used as a form of currency in the Netherlands East Indies, which is now known as Indonesia, for over 300 years. Despite being issued in 1601, it remained in circulation until the late 19th century, which speaks to its durability and longevity as a currency. Additionally, the fact that it was made of silver and weighed 27.31 grams adds to its historical significance, as it was a valuable and widely accepted form of currency during its time.