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1578 Brabant (Belgium) Spanish Netherlands Creation Union of Utrecht against Spainbeing Philip II King of Spain
Material: Copper
Weight: 5 gDiameter: 29 mmDate: 1578
Mint: Antwerp
Reference: Dugniolle 2754This jeton was struck in Antwerp in 1578, on the very eve of one of the decisive moments in the Eighty Years’ War
The imagery of the lion with sword and the bundle of arrows (*) symbolises the provinces uniting in strength against Spanish domination.The reverse legend, “Libertas praemium victoriae” (“Liberty, the reward of victory”), reflects the optimism of the rebellious provinces at this turning point.
On October 1, 1578, the Governor in the name of Philip II, Don Juan of Austria, died.After the death of John of Austria, Alexander Farnese, Duke of Parma, was appointed governor-general by Philip II
Rebel Authority: However, by 1578, effective control of many provinces, including the Utrecht region, was passing into the hands of the rebel States General and William I of Orange-Nassau, who was leading the revolt against the Spanish crown.At the time of 1578, Utrecht was in transition toward revolt, preparing for the formalization of the Union of Utrecht, which would be signed on January 23, 1579, to consolidate the alliance against Spain.
While Antwerp itself would soon fall back into Spanish hands, this jeton captures the brief but powerful moment when the hope of a free and united Netherlands was at its height. It is both a tangible relic and a propaganda piece, designed to inspire confidence in the cause of independence. It captures a unique moment in the history of the low countries, when Flanders stood together with the northern Netherlands and parties overcame religious differences to fight against Spain.A scarce and historically important type, seldom encountered on the market compared to later 17th century jetons. Union jetons are far less common than later types and are highly sought after by collectors for their strong connection to the birth of the Dutch Republic.
A piece linked directly to the struggle for the foundation of the Netherlands.(*)The Yoke and the Arrows (explanation)
Arrows = Flechas in spanish.Yoke = Yugo in spanish.
This spanish symbol was created by the Catholic Monarchs (Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon)
Isabel chose the Arrows because their initials (Flechas) matched the initial of Fernando's name.
Fernando chose the Yoke (Yugo) because his initials matched the initial of Ysabel's name.
At that time, the name Isabel was also spelled Ysabel, Elisabet, etc.
Photos:Philip IIWilliam_I of_Orange-Nassau
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