Indo Dutch, Cochin, Silver Fanam c. 18th century (Modern Day Kochi)

Authority : Dutch India
Era : c. 18th century
Region : Cochin
Denomination : Fanam Ot Puttan 
Weight : 0.29 grams approx
Diameter : 6.09 mm
Reference : Reference: KM# 8

obverse :
Formalized figure of deity (Kali?) standing facing (figure looks a bit like a conch).

Reverse :
"Lazy J" with dots below (degenerate boat), o.c. above (for Oostindische Compagnie).

Comment :
The Dutch arrived in India in 1605, primarily to establish trade relations and compete with the Portuguese, who had dominated the spice trade. The Dutch set up several factories (trading posts) along the western and eastern coasts of India to facilitate the spice and textile trade. The Dutch captured several forts and trading posts from the Portuguese, including Cochin (Kochi) in 1663. By the late 18th century, the Dutch influence in India waned due to The rise of the British East India Company, which systematically expanded its territories and trade dominance. Dutch-era forts, churches, and cemeteries can still be seen in Pulicat, Nagapattinam, and Kochi. Dutch coins minted in Indian settlements, often bearing the VOC monogram, are significant for collectors.