SPANISH NETHERLANDS. Spanish Netherlands - Brazil - Mexico. Brabant. 48 Stivers, ND (ca. 1652-72). Philip IV/Charles II. PCGS FINE-12 Gold Shield.Delm-324; cf.Gomes-J4.04.01; cf.LDMB-P008. Golden Fleece countermark in shaped indent applied to the reverse of an undated Mexico Cob 8 Reales probably of Philip IV with previous Brazil crowned 480 Reis countermark (by decree of 26 February 1643, Gomes-J4.04.01) also applied to the reverse. A strongVERY /strongstrongRARE/strong and seldom encountered combination. The first countermark is boldly applied and very clear with only minor weakness on a small portion of the crown. While the second countermark, though applied about 10 or more years later, is quite weak. Two planchet cracks, one at 12 oclock and one at 6 oclock are mentioned for accuracy. A lightly toned and attractive survivor with lots of character destined for an advance collection of either Brazilian or Dutch issues. The First Countermark: VF Details, Second Countermark: FAIR Details.When Portugal declared independence from Spain in 1640 ending the Iberian-Union, the Dutch no longer had to fear Spanish intervention into Dutch-Brazil. After gaining independence, the Portuguese and Dutch called a truce temporarily ending hostilities which allowed the Dutch to remain in Brazil. This of course was mutually beneficial to both the Dutch and the Portuguese, but only lasted until June 1645 when a major uprising by Portuguese planters occurred in Pernambuco. After many engagements, the Dutch were forced to surrender control of Recife 28 January 1654. Between the years of 1652-72 many Spanish-American Cobs circulated in the Southern Netherlands and it was decided to declare them legal tender at the prevailing rate of 42 Stivers to the 8 Reales. From the Kyle Ponterio Collection.
