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Denier - Immobilization of Charles II
| Issuer | Brittany, Duchy of |
|---|---|
| Year | 900-1020 |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
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| Reference(s) | Nouchy#190 (p.186) |
| Obverse description | Central field features the Carolingian monogram KRLS (Karolus), formed by interlaced capital letters within a rounded inner border. The monogram is executed in the Carolingian style typical of immobilized deniers derived from the coinage of Charles II (the Bald). A circular outer legend surrounds the central device, reading ✠ GRΛTIΛ D-I REX, attributing royal authority by divine grace. The flan is irregular and the relief uneven, consistent with hammered billon production of the early medieval period. |
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| Edge | Plain |
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| Additional information |
Carolingian royal types were frequently "immobilized" by regional powers after central authority collapsed — the design frozen and reissued locally long after the original king's death, trading on the legitimacy of a recognized royal name rather than acknowledging a new issuing authority. The Breton duchy's immobilization of the Charles II type persisted well into the eleventh century, by which point the coins bore no meaningful connection to the West Frankish king who died in 877.
Billon quality degrades noticeably across the production span, with later strikes showing significantly reduced silver content as Breton moneyers adjusted alloy composition to local economic pressures.