BELGIUM. Dutch Revolt. Siege of Brussels. Daalder of 36 Stuiver, 1580. PCGS Genuine--Damage, VF Details. Korchnak-129B; Mailliet-pl. XX #6; Vanhoudt-540; Delm-216; W-823; Van Gelder-160A; DeMay-1536; MO-4.3.4.3. Weight: 24.52 gms. 32.8 mm x 33 mm. Mintage: 12,400; inclusive of 1579 and 1580 issues. Siege: August 1579 - 10 March 1585, sporadically. Square uniface flan with arms of Brussels (St. Michael subduing Satan) in center flanked by date (15-80); legend: PERFER.ET.OBDVRA.BRVXELLA. This <strong>VERY </strong><strong>RARE</strong> and seldom encountered necessity issue exhibits a bold central stamp on a nicely produced even flan. The surfaces display a lovely old cabinet patina with a pleasant iridescent sheen. Minor marks and abrasion are present, as one would expect from the designated grade, but aside from a few shallow scratches nothing overly distracting. Close inspection reveals an attempted piercing from long ago at 12 oclock and initials "ES" at 6 oclock accounts for the details designation. Despite its shortcomings a handsome example of this very elusive issue that is certain to excite obsidional collectors far and wide. <p><em>The siege of Brussels was set in motion by Philip, Count of Egmont, the son of Lamoraal, Duke of Alva. The Duke, a Dutch patriot, was murdered sometime in the early years of the Eighty Years War. At some point after serving in the Dutch army under William of Orange, Philip defected to the Spanish for unknown reasons. In order to convince the advancing military of his intent, Philip promised them the city of Brussels, his home town. Aided by his loyal infantry and cavalry regiments, his troops were able to occupy the castle. Due to a quick response the Dutch forces were able to regain the lost position driving Philips troops back. After retreating and being under siege for two days, Philip, now being charged with treason, surrendered and was exiled never to return to the city of Brussels again. Though Philips forces had been defeated and he was expelled from the city, the Spanish were still present in the surrounding areas. Eventually, the defending Dutch garrison demanded payment for their services of protecting the city. During this time the magistrate was forced to gather silver from the churches and several prominent citizens to strike coins.</em><p><em></em><em>It is interesting to note that we have only been able to locate one other example from this series, dated 1579, sold in Heritage 2004 New York Signature Auction Lot # 14234 hammering down for $1,850- hailing from the Garrett collection. </em>
