© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Silver Fleece - Philip the Handsome
1499 year| Silver (.879) | 3.45 g | 29 mm |
| Issuer | Burgundian Netherlands (County of Holland, Dutch States) |
|---|---|
| Duke | Philip the Handsome (1482-1506) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 1499 |
| Value | 1 Silver Fleece (6) |
| Currency | Groot (-1506) |
| Composition | Silver (.879) |
| Weight | 3.45 g |
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#313443 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Jewel of the order of the golden fleece suspended below two firesteels (vuurijzers or briquets). Legend ends with date and mint mark.
Script: Latin (uncial)
Lettering: InICIVM + SAPIEnCIE + TIMOR + DOMInI + AnnO 1499 ❀
Lettering (regular font): INICIVM + SAPIENCIE + TIMOR + DOMINI + ANNO 1499 ❀
Translation: Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom
Comment
Known as zilveren vlies in Dutch.A similar type was issued for Brabant (see reference below). They can be distinguished by the size of the crowned arms obverse (on the Brabant type it interrupts the legend considerably) and by the end of the obverse legend.
Interesting fact
The Silver Fleece coin was minted during the reign of Philip the Handsome, who was the Duke of Burgundy and the Count of Holland from 1499 to 1506. The coin was used as a means of payment and was widely accepted in the Burgundian Netherlands, which was a region that included modern-day Netherlands, Belgium, and parts of France. Despite its small size, the coin was made of silver, which gave it a high value and made it a popular choice for trade and commerce.
