Denier - Theobald III
| Issuer | Champagne and Brie, County of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1197-1201 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Denier (1⁄240) |
| Currency | |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.8 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Boudeau#1764 |
| Obverse description | Cross confined to the 1st and 4th quarters of a pellet, to the 2nd quarter of an omega and to the 3rd quarter of an alpha. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
+ TEBAT COMES (Translation: Count Theobald.) |
| Reverse description | Champenois comb surmounted by a T between two inverted crescents. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
CASTRI PRVVINS (Translation: [Denier] of the castle of Provins.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1197-1201) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1765656500 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: The Denier of Theobald III represents a brief but pivotal period for the County of Champagne (1197-1201). As the son of Henry I and Marie of France, Theobald inherited a powerful and economically vibrant domain, famed for its great fairs. Though his reign was tragically cut short, dying just before leading the Fourth Crusade, his coinage underscores the count's sovereign right to mint and the region's continued prosperity and influence in feudal France.
Artistry: Typical of late 12th-century feudal coinage, this denier exhibits a simplified, yet robust, aesthetic. While no specific engraver is recorded, the design reflects the prevailing proto-Gothic stylistic trends, characterized by directness over intricate detail. The obverse commonly features a prominent cross pattee, often with pellets in the angles, while the reverse displays a stylized monogram, frequently interpreting the ruler's name, such as "TE" or "TH", within a circular legend.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, weighing 0.8 grams and measuring 20 millimeters, this hammered coin often presents with inherent production variabilities. High-points for preservation would typically be the central elements of the cross and the raised features of the monogram. Due to the striking process, examples frequently exhibit irregular flans, off-center strikes, and areas of weak legend, particularly at the periphery. Full, crisp strikes with complete legends are highly prized.