Utrecht Copper Stiver

Utrecht copper stivers were minted using planchets cut from recycled copper pots and pans, a practical response to material shortages during the Dutch Revolt.

That recycling habit reflected the era's frugality, as the coins circulated widely in the Bishopric of Utrecht from 1579 onward. Designs varied by ruler, often showing the bishop's arms or a simple cross, struck at local mints under pressure from wars and trade demands. Mintage figures are spotty; records for many years vanished in later conflicts or administrative chaos.

I've handled dozens of these over the years, and they wear quickly, which is why so few survive in good condition. If you're lucky enough to find one, check for counterfeits—plenty of forgers saw opportunity in copper's abundance.