Dutch Colonies - Dutch East India Company coin

The VOC, or Dutch East India Company (Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie), was one of the most powerful commercial enterprises in history, controlling vast trade networks across Asia, Africa, and Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. It played a major role in global commerce, early colonial expansion, and the development of modern capitalism.

Because the Dutch were the first Europeans to establish a settlement on Manhattan—then called New Amsterdam—coins issued by the VOC in this period are sometimes referred to as the “First New York penny.” These small copper coins were widely used in everyday trade within the Dutch Republic and its overseas territories.

This type typically features simple stamped designs and lettering associated with the VOC’s various chambers (such as Amsterdam or Zeeland), reflecting its identity as a state-backed trading corporation with authority to mint currency, conduct diplomacy, and govern colonies.