Charles de Blois struck these deniers during the Breton War of Succession, a conflict in which he held Brittany in name but fought constantly to hold it in fact — backed by France against the English-supported claim of John de Montfort. The tournois type was a deliberate adoption of the French royal monetary tradition, reflecting Valois patronage as much as practical currency needs.
Charles was captured at the Battle of La Roche-Derrien in 1347 and spent nine years as a prisoner in England. Coinage in his name continued to be struck during his captivity.
Charles de Blois struck these deniers during the Breton War of Succession, a conflict in which he held Brittany in name but fought constantly to hold it in fact — backed by France against the English-supported claim of John de Montfort. The tournois type was a deliberate adoption of the French royal monetary tradition, reflecting Valois patronage as much as practical currency needs.
Charles was captured at the Battle of La Roche-Derrien in 1347 and spent nine years as a prisoner in England. Coinage in his name continued to be struck during his captivity.