Denier - Charlemagne (Rennes mint; CARLVS/REDNIS) (768-771) front Denier - Charlemagne (Rennes mint; CARLVS/REDNIS) (768-771) back
Denier - Charlemagne (Rennes mint; CARLVS/REDNIS) (768-771) photo
© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica

Denier - Charlemagne Rennes mint; CARLVS/REDNIS

 
Silver 1.24 g -
Description
Issuer
Unified Carolingian Empire
King
Charlemagne (Karolus) (768-814)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
768-771
Value
1 Denier (1⁄240)
Currency
Pound (751-843)
Composition
Silver
Weight
1.24 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#345829
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Legend in two lines under a bar.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
RED
NIS

Unabridged legend: REDONIS

Translation: Rennes.

Comment

Coupland takes up the hypothesis of Grierson according to which the very first types of the reign of Charlemagne, with non-standardized legends like here, ceased to be struck in 771, after the death of Carloman.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an early depiction of Charlemagne, who was the King of the Franks and Holy Roman Emperor, and is considered one of the most important figures in European history. The coin was minted during his reign, which lasted from 768 to 771, and it is believed to be one of the first coins to feature a realistic portrait of a ruler. The coin's design was likely influenced by the Byzantine Empire's coinage, which had a similar style of portraiture. This coin is a rare and valuable example of early medieval numismatics and is highly sought after by collectors and historians.