Tien stuiver, noodmunt van de Verenigde Belgische Staten 1790

This silver coin, designed by Dutch medalist Theodorus Victor van Berckel in 1790, is a "Tien stuiver" or "ten-stuver" coin from the short-lived United Belgian States. It features a lion with a sword on the obverse, symbolizing the country's strength and independence. The reverse displays a hand holding a sword, surrounded by rays and the inscription "VEREENIGDE BELGISCHE STATEN." The coin, measuring 2.5 cm in diameter and weighing 4.74 grams, represents a brief moment in Belgian history when a unified nation was envisioned. This small piece of metal provides a glimpse into a period of political and economic change in the late 18th century.