59.1 mm; 43.73 gms. Van Loon I, Page 345/346. <strong>RARE</strong>. Also known as William the Taciturn, he was largely responsible for instigating the Eighty Years War which led to the emergence of the Netherlands as an independent nation. Though of Catholic origin, he stood fast in the defense of persecuted Protestants at the hands of Philip II of Spain. He was eventually assassinated by Balthasar Gerard in 1584. Struck posthumously. A highly ornate design with the central devices within a cartouche on both sides, and with clear elements of Christian influence seen throughout. A touch of wear on the highest points of the hair and framework around the perimeter of the reverse. Lightly toned, and totally without faults or impairment. Possibly the finest extant.，PCGS AU-55.，
