Haec Libertatis Ergo Geocoin

The Eighty Years’ War, or Dutch War of Independence, (1568–1648) began as a revolt of the Seventeen Provinces against Philip II of Spain, the sovereign of the Habsburg Netherlands.

After the initial stages Philip II deployed his armies and regained control over most of the rebelling provinces. However, under the leadership of the exiled William of Orange the northern provinces continued their resistance and managed to oust the Spanish armies, and established the republic of the Seven United Netherlands.

The subsequent war between the Spanish empire and the Republic continued, although the heartland of the Republic was no longer threatened. The war ended in 1648 with the Peace of Munster when the Dutch Republic was recognised as an independent country.

Design

The front of this geocoin is made after a silver copy of a paper coin from the city of Leiden in 1574. This paper coin was made to finance the 80-year Dutch revolt against the Spanish occupier. Spanish troups besieged the city, but in 1574 the city was relieved by cutting the dikes thus enabling ships to carry provisions to the inhabitants of the flooded town. The coins shows a Dutch lion with on it’s lance a hat of freedom. The text ‘Haec libertatis ergo’ means ‘all the for the sake of freedom’. On the back of the coin the broken chain, dutch flag and the keys of the city of Leiden.

Details
Dimensions 1.75″ (42 mm); round
Trackable Yes
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Editions Issue date Issued by
Antique Silver
red/white/blue		 April 2011 geocoinshop.de
Antique Gold
red/white/blue		 April 2011 geocoinshop.de
Antique Bronze/Nickel
red/white/blue		 LE, 75 made April 2011 geocoinshop.de
Antique Copper/Nickel
red/white/blue		 LE, 75 made April 2011 geocoinshop.de
Antique Silver/Nickel
red/white/blue		 LE, 75 made Expected: April 2011 geocoinshop.de
Foggy Gold/Antique Silver
orange/white/blue		 XLE, only 20 made February 2011 Van Stoffelen
Black Nickel/Antique Gold
orange/white/blue		 XLE, only 20 made February 2011 Van Stoffelen
Antique Bronze/Silver
orange/white/blue		 XLE, only 20 made February 2011 Van Stoffelen
Antique Silver/Silver
orange/white/blue
and orange glitter		 XLE, only 5 made February 2011 Van Stoffelen