½ Liard "Gigot" - Philip II (Maastricht) 1580-1597 front ½ Liard "Gigot" - Philip II (Maastricht) 1580-1597 back
½ Liard "Gigot" - Philip II (Maastricht) 1580-1597 photo
© Jean Elsen & ses Fils s.a.

½ Liard "Gigot" - Philip II Maastricht

 
Copper 2.61 g 22 mm
Description
Issuer
Spanish Netherlands (Duchy of Brabant, Belgian States)
King
Philip II (1556-1598)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1580-1597
Value
½ Liard (Duit) (1⁄160)
Currency
Gulden (1506-1713)
Composition
Copper
Weight
2.61 g
Diameter
22 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#8586
Rarity index
77%

Reverse

Crowned arms of Austria-Burgundy.

Script: Latin

Lettering: DOMINVS MIHI ADVITOR

Translation: The Lord is my helper.

Comment

Known as a Gigot (French) or Duit (Dutch)

Interesting fact

The ½ Liard "Gigot" coin from Spanish Netherlands (Duchy of Brabant, Belgian States) minted during Philip II's reign (1580-1597) is interesting because it was made of copper, a material that was not commonly used for coinage during that time period. Most coins from that era were made of precious metals like gold, silver, or gold-silver alloys. The use of copper for this coin may have been a result of a shortage of precious metals or a deliberate choice to create a more affordable currency for everyday transactions. This coin's unique composition makes it stand out among other coins from the same time period and region.