1⁄40 Écu - Philip II

Historical Context: The 1/40 Écu, issued by Philip II for the Lordship of Tournai (1583-1584), embodies Spanish Habsburg authority during the tumultuous Eighty Years' War. Tournai, a key city in the Spanish Netherlands, remained loyal to the crown amidst widespread revolt. This billon coinage reflects Philip II's efforts to maintain monetary stability and assert sovereignty in a region plagued by conflict and diverse currency standards. The Écu denomination, French in origin, was adapted to the Low Countries' monetary system.

Artistry: The design of this small denomination typically features a crowned monogram of Philip II on the obverse, reflecting the monarch's omnipresent rule. The reverse commonly displays the arms of Tournai – a tower with three turrets – symbolizing the city's identity within the Spanish dominion. While specific engravers are rarely attributed for such common billon issues, the style adheres to the late Renaissance aesthetic prevalent in the Low Countries, characterized by clear heraldry and royal iconography, simplified for the small flan.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon (.417 silver), this 1.5-gram coin often exhibits the technical challenges of its era. High-points susceptible to wear include the intricate details of the crown on the monogram and the fine elements of the Tournai arms. Strike quality varies significantly, with examples frequently showing weakness in the central devices, partial strikes, or minor off-centering due to rapid production. Planchet irregularities, such as uneven thickness or slight flan cracks, are also common for this type.