© CGB
© CGB
Denier - John I of Apremont 1st type with joint hands and blessing hand ND
| Silver | 0.8 g | 15.5 mm |
| Issuer | Bishopric of Metz (French States) |
|---|---|
| Bishop | John I of Apremont (1224-1238) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1224-1238 |
| Value | 1 Denier |
| Currency | Denier (929-1505) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.8 g |
| Diameter | 15.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#78997 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
Blessing right hand over a cross.
Script: Latin
Lettering: METENSIS
Translation: Metz.
Comment
Multiple varieties exist. They share the same Boudeau reference, but are divided in a major groups according to the Flon catalog (cf. comments). Some minor variations exist (with or without dots or stars, in front of or behind the bishop) and have no distinct number, so they won't be referenced here. However we can distinguish 2 main forms. This main form bears a small cross and the bishop with a stick. The other main form bears a completely different look, aka. a blessing hand over a bigger cross and a praying bishop).This main variation contains 3 secondary variations. More informations will be given later, after consulting Dominique Flon's book.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique design element known as the "joint hands and blessing hand" motif, which depicts the bishop with his hands clasped together in prayer and a raised hand in blessing. This design was used in the first type of denier coins issued during John I of Apremont's reign and was meant to symbolize the bishop's role as a spiritual leader and his authority to grant blessings to his followers.
