Denier - Carloman I Orleans, Saint-Aignan Church
| Issuer | Unified Carolingian Empire |
|---|---|
| Year | 768-771 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Denier (1⁄240) |
| Currency | Pound (751-843) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.28 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Nouchy#7 (p.37), Morrison#88, Gariel Car#IV/9 |
| Obverse description | Legend in two lines in a beaded circle. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
CAR LOM (Translation: Carloman.) |
| Reverse description | Saint Aignan standing, holding a crozier on the left. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
SCI ANIAI (Translation: Saint Aignan.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (768-771) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1044308680 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This denier, issued under Carloman I (768-771), marks a critical juncture in early Carolingian monetary history. As co-ruler with Charlemagne, Carloman maintained distinct royal authority. Mints like Orleans, referencing Saint-Aignan Church, often operated under ecclesiastical control. The coinage reflects the consolidation of the silver denier, a reform initiated by Pepin the Short, moving from Merovingian triens. Its production ceased with Carloman’s death, making his issues significant for the nascent Carolingian state.
Artistry: The anonymous dies for this type exhibit a characteristic early Carolingian aesthetic, transitioning from late Merovingian prototypes. Engravers are unknown; the stylistic school prioritizes clear epigraphy over figural representation. The obverse typically features a central cross; the reverse bears a royal monogram (CARLOMANVS) or simplified legend, circumscribed by the mint signature (AVRELIANIS) and often "SCS ANIANVS," denoting Saint-Aignan Abbey. Execution is robust, often lacking fine detail, but legible.
Technical/Grading: For this denier (Nouchy#7, Morrison#88), grading hinges on legend completeness and clarity: "CARLOMANVS REX" or monogram, "AVRELIANIS," and "SCS ANIANVS." Full, legible inscriptions on both sides significantly enhance value, given common off-centering and weak strikes. Central motifs (cross, monogram) must be well-defined. Flan quality is key; a well-rounded, solid planchet without significant cracks or laminations is desirable. The specific weight of 1.28 gg aligns with the period's standard.