MI354/1, AE39  City of Tournai captured.  The war of Spanish  Succession started in 1700 with the death of Charles II the childless King of Spain and its vast American empire.  Two branches o f the Spanish royal line, the Bourbons (French) and the Hapsburgs(Austrian/German) both claimed the throne. However, either party seizing the Spanish throne would unbalance the power in Europe, so a war ensued.  At first the French gained the upper hand threatening the low countries which then brought the British into the fight. Led by their brilliant commander, General John Churchill, the British and their continental allies won a string of victories in 1708 and 1709. The seizure of Tournai and its French garrison was a major victory for Britain and its allies.  A nice example, Toned with reflective fields with rainbow highlights.  CHUNC