Obol - Immobilization in the name of Charles the Simple Melle

Historical Context: This silver obol, issued by the County of Poitou between 1100 and 1200, represents a fascinating example of monetary immobilization. Despite its 12th-century striking, the coin bears the name of Charles the Simple, a Carolingian monarch who reigned from 898 to 922. This practice, common in feudal France, reflects the fragmented political landscape where powerful local lords, such as the Counts of Poitou, exercised regalian rights over coinage. By perpetuating the name of a long-dead king, they either sought legitimacy through historical association or simply maintained an established, trusted monetary type from the important mint of Melle, rather than introducing new designs under their own names.

Artistry: The specific engraver of this obol remains anonymous, typical for feudal issues of this period. Stylistically, the coin adheres to the early medieval French tradition, characterized by its utilitarian nature and often rudimentary execution. Given the "immobilization" in Charles the Simple's name, the design likely emulates earlier Carolingian prototypes, featuring a simple cross on one side and a stylized monogram or legend referencing the king on the other. Such designs are generally schematic, lacking the intricate detail of later periods, and prioritize legibility of the cross and name over artistic flourish, reflecting the decentralized and practical nature of its production.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 0.45 grams and measuring 17 millimeters, this obol is a small, thin silver piece. High-points for wear would typically include the central elements of the cross or any raised portions of the monogram or bust, if present. Technically, these coins often exhibit variable strike quality; off-center strikes, irregular flan shapes, and areas of flatness due to uneven hammer blows are common. The silver purity would have been relatively consistent for its time, but the overall manufacturing process prioritized quantity and functional currency over aesthetic perfection, leading to significant variation in individual examples.