Watch List notes:

FRANCE. War of Spanish Succession. Siege of Aire-sur-la-Lys. 50 Sols, 1710. PCGS AU-55.
KM-16.2; Korchnak-9B; Mailliet-pl. I #5; DeMay-3626; MO-4.8.2.1. Weight: 15.09 gms. 33.8 mm x 28 mm. Siege: 2 September - 8 November 1710. Irregular octagonal uniface flan with crowned arms of Governor Guebriant in center flanked by date (17-10); legend: PRO.RECE.ET.PATRIA.ARIA.50.OB. This very attractive and nicely preserved obsidional issue boasts a strong strike on a unusually shaped planchet, elongated irregular octagonal, displaying beautiful old cabinet patina with a slight iridescent sheen. The surfaces are relatively smooth with only minor marks or abrasions that one would expect to see from the designated grade. Pleasing to the eye, this lovely siege issue is sure to be a welcome addition to the next collection it enters.

After the death of Charles II of Spain the line of succession was unclear since the monarch had no children. Struggle for control of the Spanish Empire and throne ensued between Philippe, Duke of Anjou, and Charles, Archduke of Austria. Attempts at diplomacy between France and England to resolve the issue were unsuccessful and rejected by the Spanish as well as Philippe, Charles II named heir. His proclamation as King on 16 November 1700, fifteen days after the death of Charles II, called for an undivided Spanish Empire. This ultimately led to war between France and Spain on one side and the Grand Alliance (The Holy Roman Empire, the Dutch Republic, Savoy and Great Britain) on the other. During the war the allies marched on Aire after taking control of Douay. By September the city was surrounded by the Prince of Anhalt-Dessau's forces of 40 Battalions. However, by the time the Allied forces arrived, Governor de Guebriant had gathered significant quantities of supplies preparing for a long siege. Due to a money shortage, de Guebriant utilized his own silver to make coins and pay his troops. The besieged forces managed to repel the Allies, but realized holding the city was futile. Eventually de Guebriant met with the Duke of Marlborough to discuss the terms of surrender ultimately handing over control of the city and left with his troops.

Estimate: $1000 - $1500