Contraband and smugglers’ objects
Objects used by smugglers, confiscated goods and contraband also form part of our collection. From shoes with false soles to specially made smuggling clothing and fake articles that cannot be distinguished from the real thing. The history of the world of customs, borders, smuggling and inspections delivers many ‘exciting’ items. And behind every object there is a story, like the ‘drug toilet’.
Smuggler’s bicycle
Object: bicycle, smuggling medium
This smuggler’s bicycle dates from the 1930s. Alcohol was smuggled to Belgium in the hollow mudguards. Cigarette rolling papers were brought back in the hollowed-out saddle. At the time, there was a separate tax on rolling papers in the Netherlands.
Smuggler’s coin
Object: one cent coin, smuggling medium
This hollowed-out one cent coin was used to smuggle opium in the Dutch East Indies. The Netherlands had established an opium production monopoly.
Tortoise shell
Object: tortoise shell, contraband
The museum acquired this tortoise shell from the Rotterdam Customs Office. Regarding the import and export of endangered species, the new Dutch Nature Conversation Act (2017) contains provisions for exemptions, certificates, derogations and permits.
Studded tire and road knife
Object: means of detention
Studded tires and road knives were used as roadblocks by Customs to stop smugglers. They were placed on the road and when a vehicle drove over them, the sharp points would puncture the tires. These devices were widely used around 1950 at the border with Belgium in the fight against butter smuggling.