Dinar - Stefan Uroš IV Dušan

Uitgever Serbia (medieval)
Jaar 1331-1355
Type Standard circulation coin
Waarde 1 Dinar
Valuta Dinar (1217-1459)
Samenstelling Silver
Gewicht 1.24 g
Diameter 20.7 mm
Dikte 1 mm
Vorm Round (irregular)
Techniek Hammered
Oriëntatie
Graveur(s)
In omloop tot
Referentie(s) Jovanovic#11-1
Beschrijving voorzijde Ornamented helmet with 3 feathers at the top. Latin inscription circling the rim.
Schrift voorzijde
Opschrift voorzijde STEFANVS - DEI GRA • REX
(Translation: Stefan by the grace of god king)
Beschrijving keerzijde Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels, King face on both sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triple pellets around the throne
Schrift keerzijde
Opschrift keerzijde IC - XC
Rand
Muntplaats
Oplage ND (1331-1355) - -
Numisquare-ID 1282816140
Aanvullende informatie

Historical Context: This Dinar was issued during the reign of Stefan Uroš IV Dušan (1331-1355), a period marking the zenith of the medieval Serbian Empire. Known as Dušan the Mighty, he significantly expanded Serbian territory, codified laws, and was crowned Emperor of Serbs and Greeks in 1346. His coinage, including this silver dinar, served as a crucial economic instrument, reflecting the empire's prosperity and his imperial aspirations, solidifying his realm's standing in the Balkans.

Artistry: The design of this dinar exemplifies the strong Byzantine artistic influence prevalent in medieval Serbian numismatics. While specific engravers are unknown, royal mint artisans produced coins typically featuring the ruler, Stefan Dušan, enthroned or standing on the obverse, often holding imperial regalia. The reverse commonly depicts Christ Pantocrator or a patron saint. Legends, rendered in Cyrillic, proclaim Dušan's titles, showcasing a blend of religious iconography and imperial propaganda characteristic of the era.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this dinar measures 20.7 mm and weighs 1.24 grams, typical for the series. Key high-points susceptible to wear or weak striking include Dušan's crown and facial features, the details of his regalia, and the central elements of the Christ Pantocrator or saintly depiction on the reverse. As a hammered coin, examples often exhibit characteristic planchet irregularities, variable striking pressure, and occasional off-center strikes, impacting the completeness of legends and peripheral design elements.

×