Denier - Paschal I and emperor Louis I

Émetteur Papal States
Année 817-824
Type Standard circulation coin
Valeur 1 Denier
Devise Denier (772-983)
Composition Silver
Poids 1.48 g
Diamètre 23 mm
Épaisseur
Forme Round (irregular)
Technique Hammered
Orientation Variable alignment ↺
Graveur(s)
En circulation jusqu’à
Référence(s) CNI XV#1 (p.67), Munt#1 (p.5), Berman#17
Description de l’avers Papal monogram in a beaded circle, legend around.
Écriture de l’avers Latin
Légende de l’avers PS CAL ✠ • SCS PETRVS •
(Translation: Paschal. Saint Peter.)
Description du revers City monogram in a beaded circle, legend around.
Écriture du revers Latin
Légende du revers ROMA ✠ LVDOVVICS IMP
(Translation: Rome. Emperor Louis.)
Tranche
Atelier
Tirage ND (817-824) - -
ID Numisquare 2505104530
Informations supplémentaires

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.

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