Catalog
| Issuer | Papal States |
|---|---|
| Year | 817-824 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Denier |
| Currency | Denier (772-983) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.48 g |
| Diameter | 23 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | CNI XV#1 (p.67), Munt#1 (p.5), Berman#17 |
| Obverse description | Papal monogram in a beaded circle, legend around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
PS CAL ✠ • SCS PETRVS • (Translation: Paschal. Saint Peter.) |
| Reverse description | City monogram in a beaded circle, legend around. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
ROMA ✠ LVDOVVICS IMP (Translation: Rome. Emperor Louis.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (817-824) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 2505104530 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver denier was issued during Paschal I's pontificate (817-824), a significant era in the early Carolingian Empire. Paschal I managed the intricate relationship with Emperor Louis I "the Pious." The coin's dual inscription, bearing both the Pope's and Emperor's names, powerfully symbolized the *renovatio imperii* and the intertwined spiritual and temporal authorities. It affirmed the Papal States' right to issue coinage, while acknowledging imperial suzerainty, a crucial political statement for ninth-century Rome.
Artistry: The design, referenced as CNI XV#1, Munt#1, and Berman#17, showcases the early medieval numismatic aesthetic. Engravers are anonymous; the style reflects prevailing Roman minting practices, influenced by Carolingian prototypes. A typical design features a central cross with the Pope's name (PASCHALIS) in the angles on the obverse. The reverse commonly displays a stylized temple facade or a monogram, encircled by the Emperor's name (LUDOVICUS IMP). This potent iconography effectively conveyed authority and legitimacy.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, approximately 1.48 grams and 23 millimeters, this denier conforms to Carolingian monetary standards. Manual striking often resulted in irregularities: off-center strikes, minor flan imperfections, or inconsistent pressure. For the temple design, the roof pediment and column tops are common high-points prone to wear. Collectors prioritize clarity of legends and definition of central devices. Well-centered, fully struck examples are highly valued, despite technical limitations of early medieval minting.