Grave Matters

Coins have long served not only as a medium of exchange but also as a reflection of cultural, artistic, and historical moments. Among the most intriguing pieces in numismatics are the coins, tokens, and medals featuring skulls. These macabre images, often laden with symbolism, evoke a rich tapestry of meanings from different eras and locations around the world. Join me as we delve into the fascinating world of skull iconography, focusing particularly on European church tokens from Germany and The Netherlands, as well as the cultural appeal of the symbols of death.

The skull, a universal symbol of death and mortality, has appeared on coins and tokens throughout history, often in connection with the passing of a loved one or the remembrance of an important figure. Memento Mori, Latin for "remember that you must die," reemerged in the late medieval period as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly life and the inevitability of death. The term, coined during the height of the Roman Empire, found its way back into daily life around Europe, particularly to be used by the Catholic Church. This concept was prominently featured in various art forms, including coins, tombstones, and surrounding church buildings. The church in Liège, Belgium, has arguably the most iconic and popular pieces from the era of skull tokens. With five varieties minted over nearly 40 years, the Saint-Lambert skull and bones communion tokens of Liège have surely taken their place as the most recognizable in numismatics.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, church tokens became prevalent in Europe, particularly in Germany and the Netherlands. These tokens, often distributed during times of religious celebration, remembrance, and communion, became synonymous with any event having to do with the local church. These tokens would also have been given to a grieving family who lost a loved one to remember that death is inevitable, but the afterlife is eternal.

The inclusion of the skull emphasized the Memento Mori ethos, urging believers to lead virtuous lives in preparation for the afterlife. Other uses have been recorded as payment to pallbearers and gravediggers, as well as proof that you were in good standing to take communion. Additionally, there are records of tokens being accepted as payment at feasts and other local gatherings and events. Each token was also likely minted by local blacksmiths as their composition was either lead, copper, or bronze – common metals worked by the blacksmiths of the time. While many coins were hammered or hand-struck, others have been recorded as minted by way of a screw press. However, the use of these tokens served as a symbol of piety and reflection on mortality for the people of the time.

Hearts and Bones

The depiction of skulls on coins allowed for a unique blend of artistry and philosophy. These coins often featured detailed engravings, with skulls portrayed in various artistic styles in different countries. The skulls depicted were sometimes accompanied by other symbols of mortality, such as hourglasses, scythes, or coffins, enhancing the overall message of the brevity of life and the importance of spiritual preparedness. Death is guaranteed for all in this earthly life, so reminding people to take care of themselves and others in life was a concept perpetuated around Europe.

Another use I discovered in my search for skulls was in the imagery depicted on marriage tokens. One such example came from Germany, where love and marriage tokens were given to the newly married couple and carried on the wedding day. These tokens, occasionally smaller than a modern U.S. Roosevelt Dime, are exceptionally intricate. The symbolism of marriage tokens shows the bond between the couple through life, love, and death.

Today, collectors seek out coins featuring skulls, not just for their aesthetic appeal but also for their historical and cultural significance. Several factors contribute to my personal excitement surrounding these macabre numismatic treasures, including the symbolism that was popularized by pirates.

Skulls Galore

The infamous “Jolly Roger” skull and crossbones insignia that has become the famous symbol it is today could very well have been partly inspired by the tokens and imagery originating from the churches of Europe. The skull and bones symbol has grown and evolved over the centuries into the popular symbol it is today. From pirate films, books, and games, to a myriad of companies using the symbol in varied styles, the skull and bones motif has solidified its place in history.

In recent years, various countries have minted coins and tokens with skulls depicted on them. Recently, I was gifted a unique piece, a good-for token, that acted as a contemporary business card or coupon in today’s age. This token depicts a skull with a unique flower-shaped planchet used by a store in the early 20th century. Many stores in the U.S., as well as around Europe, used tokens like this to promote a business or product. These tokens could be exchanged for goods at their respective stores for varying prices dictated by the token itself. A brilliant marketing strategy if you ask me!

Of all the examples of tokens, medals, and coins, the famous silver Washington Funeral Skull and Crossbones Medal is the most exciting. This piece combines the important historical aspect surrounding George Washington’s death with the imagery of a skull and crossbones on the reverse. While there are a few variations in different metals that were struck, the silver strike depicts the motif on the reverse of the infamous skull and crossbones. I hope to add one of these exciting pieces to my collection in the coming years and see it become the crown jewel of my skull collection.

As the world of numismatics continues to evolve, the macabre beauty of coins with skulls will undoubtedly remain a captivating niche, drawing enthusiasts like myself who appreciate the profound stories these small and beautiful artifacts tell. There are far more examples out there to be found in the world of “skull-lecting,” and I hope to collect even more myself. Whether viewed as historical relics, artistic masterpieces, or symbols of existential reflection, coins with skulls offer a unique and thrilling avenue for exploration and collection.