Peace of Munster Medal

The Peace of Munster Medal was struck using silver planchets likely recycled from Spanish coins, turning the enemy's currency into a symbol of hard-won truce.

That detail always amuses me, in a quiet way. For decades, I've examined these pieces and noted their simple obverse, featuring the date 1648 and a Latin inscription like "PAX AETERNA," alongside portraits of the Dutch and Spanish envoys. The reverse often shows clasped hands or a dove, straightforward emblems of agreement.

We don't know the exact mintage; records from that era are spotty, lost to time and perhaps a fire or two. What is clear is that these medals circulated widely in the Netherlands, serving as both propaganda and keepsake. I've handled ones with wear from pocket carry, evidence of their everyday role. No myths needed—they speak for themselves.