© Aureo & Calicó S.L., subastas numismáticas
© Aureo & Calicó S.L., subastas numismáticas
Obol - Alfonso VIII knight ND
1163 year| Billon | 0.4 g | 14 mm |
| Issuer | Kingdom of Castile (Spanish States) |
|---|---|
| King | Alfonso VIII (1158-1214) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 1163 |
| Value | 1 Obol (1 meaja) (⅙) |
| Currency | Denier |
| Composition | Billon |
| Weight | 0.4 g |
| Diameter | 14 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-07 |
| Numista | N#192635 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Greek cross
Script: Latin
Lettering: ANFVS REX
Translation: Alfonso King
Interesting fact
The Obol coin featuring Alfonso VIII (knight) from the Kingdom of Castile (Spanish States) is interesting because it was made of Billon, a metal alloy that was commonly used in the Middle Ages for coinage. Billon is a mixture of silver and other metals, usually copper, and was valued for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. The use of Billon in coinage during this period was a practical solution to the scarcity of pure silver, and it allowed for the production of coins that were both affordable and durable. The fact that the Obol coin was made of Billon speaks to the resourcefulness and ingenuity of the people of the Kingdom of Castile during this time.
