20 Patards - John of Balagny (Siege of Cambrai) 1595 front 20 Patards - John of Balagny (Siege of Cambrai) 1595 back
20 Patards - John of Balagny (Siege of Cambrai) 1595 photo
© Philippe Lhuerre

20 Patards - John of Balagny Siege of Cambrai

1595 year
Bronze 8.94 g -
Description
Issuer
City under siege of Cambrai (French States)
Period
Franco-Spanish War (1595-1598)
Governor
John of Balagny (1581-1595)
Type
Token
Year
1595
Value
20 Patards (1)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
8.94 g
Size
34 mm
Shape
Klippe
Technique
Klippe
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#17805
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Smooth.

Comment

John of Montluc, lord of Balagny, was appointed governor of Cambrai by Francis ofAlençon. After the death of his protector, he weaves between the Leaguers, the Spanish and the Protestants. He becomes almost independent and is named hereditary prince by Henry of Bourbon, future Henry IV.
In 1595, Louis of Berlaimont returned to lay siege to Cambrai, aided by the Spanish. Cambrai fell into their hands on October 7. Louis of Berlaimont is reinstated, but loses the right to mint coins.

Interesting fact

The Siege of Cambrai, which took place in 1595, was a significant event in the French Wars of Religion. The city was besieged by Spanish forces, and the coin was likely minted as a form of emergency currency to help finance the city's defense. The coin's design, featuring John of Balagny, a prominent local bishop, suggests that the city's residents were rallying around their religious leaders during this time of crisis.