© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
Obol - Charles II Orleans
| Silver | 0.91 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 | 0.91 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#342718 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Cross in a beaded circle, legend around.
Script: Latin
Lettering: ✠ ΛVRELIΛNIS CIVITS
Translation: City of Orleans.
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 the Obol coin was used as a means of exchange during this time. Despite the political instability, the Obol coin remained a stable form of currency, and its use spread beyond the Kingdom of West Francia to other parts of Europe.
