© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
Obol - Charles II Bourges mint; monogram
| Silver | 0.57 g | - |
| Issuer | Kingdom of West Francia (Carolingian Empire) |
|---|---|
| King | Charles II the Bald (843-877) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 840-864 |
| Value | 1 Obol (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Pound (840-987) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.57 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#343400 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Monogram in a beaded circle, legend around.
Script: Latin
Lettering: ✠ BITVRICES CIVI
Translation: City of Bourges.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Obol coin is that it was part of a currency reform implemented by Charles II, also known as Charles the Bald, in the 9th century. The reform aimed to replace the various local currencies that were in use throughout the Carolingian Empire with a standardized currency, and the Obol was one of the coins introduced as part of this effort. Despite its small size and relatively low value, the Obol was an important step towards creating a unified monetary system across the empire.
