Dinar - Lazar Hrebeljanović

Historical Context: This Dinar, issued in the name of Prince Lazar Hrebeljanović, marks a critical juncture in medieval Serbian history (1389-1393). Though Lazar perished at the Battle of Kosovo in 1389, these coins were minted during the regency of Princess Milica and their son, Stefan Lazarević. They symbolize the continuation of Serbian statehood amidst the devastating Ottoman victory, a period of political fragmentation and the gradual establishment of Ottoman suzerainty. The coinage asserted legitimacy and maintained economic stability during profound crisis.

Artistry: Specific engravers remain anonymous, but the coin's design adheres to prevailing Byzantine numismatic tradition, adapted with distinct Serbian elements. The obverse typically depicts Prince Lazar standing, holding a sword and globus cruciger, symbolizing temporal and spiritual authority. The reverse commonly features Christ Pantocrator enthroned, a powerful iconographic motif reinforcing divine sanction. The stylistic execution, though sometimes simplified due to small flan size, reflects late medieval Balkan Orthodox art.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this small Dinar measures 14 mm and weighs approximately 0.7 gg. Common technical characteristics include irregular flans, often exhibiting incomplete strikes or minor off-centering, typical for medieval hand-struck coinage. High-points for wear are generally the facial features and extremities of the standing ruler on the obverse, and Christ's head and knees on the reverse. Collectors should expect varying strike quality, with fully centralized and well-detailed examples being scarcer.