NETHERLANDS. Holland. Lion Daalder, 1597. NGC AU Details -- Private Countermark. Dav-8838; Delm-831. This wholesome, nicely preserved example exhibits a bold even strike with light signs of handling. Attractive mottled ginger hued patina on both sides adds to it pleasing appearance and originality. The reverse exhibits two different countermarks that appear to be unpublished with a test cut at 12 oclock accounting for the details designation of "Private Countermark". Both countermarks are boldly applied and well-defined with clear details. This wholesome looking example offers a pleasing appearance with much originality that is sure to add depth to the next collection it enters.<p><em>It is interesting to note that though these countermarks appear to be unpublished, they do draw similarities to the countermarked issues of the Order of the Knights of Malta that were applied to the reverse of lion Daalders between 1601-57; under orders from Grandmaster Alof de Wigancourt (1601-22), Grandmaster Antonine de Paule (1623-36) and Grandmaster Jean-Paul Lascaris Castellar (1636-57). The countermarks, Fleur de Lys within shaped indent and a six-pointed star (similar to the Star of David) within beaded border are both emblems frequently encountered in Freemasonry. This is more than a coincidence as the Order of the Knights of Malta has roots in Freemasonry, but are not longer associated. Another interesting aspect that should be paid attention is the presence of the test cut in the legend. All legitimate Maltese issues examined have these test cuts in the legends, though they are not in the same location, they are present. Some modern forgeries examined, though similar to the genuine countermarks, are missing the test cuts. This strange and interesting issue is deserving of further in depth research from the academic specialist.</em>
