© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
Obol - Charles II Le Mans
| Silver | 0.83 g | - |
| Issuer | Kingdom of West Francia (Carolingian Empire) |
|---|---|
| King | Charles II the Bald (843-877) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 864-875 |
| Value | 1 Obol (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Pound (840-987) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.83 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#342746 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Cross in a beaded circle, legend around.
Script: Latin
Lettering: ✠ CIN◊MΛNIS CIVI
Unabridged legend: CINOMANNIS CIVITAS
Translation: City of Le Mans.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Obol coin is that it was used as a form of currency during a time of great economic and political change in Europe. The Carolingian Empire, which was established by Charlemagne in the 8th century, was in the process of breaking apart during the reign of Charles II, and this coin was likely used to facilitate trade and commerce within the kingdom. Despite the political instability of the time, the Obol coin remained a stable and widely accepted form of currency, and its use continued well into the Middle Ages.
