© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
Solidus - Charles II Melle mint; monogram
| Gold | 3.25 g | 27.5 mm |
| Issuer | Kingdom of West Francia (Carolingian Empire) |
|---|---|
| King | Charles II the Bald (843-877) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 840-864 |
| Value | 1 Solidus (1⁄20) |
| Currency | Pound (840-987) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 3.25 g |
| Diameter | 27.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#343374 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Monogram in a beaded circle, legend around.
Script: Latin
Lettering: ✠ MET ✠ VLLO
Translation: Melle.
Comment
The extreme rarity of gold coins of Charles the Bald can be explained by the almost exclusive production of silver coins throughout the West since the 7th century.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Solidus - Charles II (Melle mint; monogram) coin is that it was minted during a time of significant economic and political change in the Carolingian Empire. The coin was issued during the reign of Charles II, also known as Charles the Bald, who ruled the empire from 840 to 864. During his reign, the empire underwent a series of reforms aimed at strengthening the economy and centralizing power. The Solidus coin, which was made of gold and weighed 3.25 grams, was an important part of these reforms, as it was used to promote trade and commerce throughout the empire. Despite the challenges of the time, the Solidus coin remains a valuable piece of history, offering a glimpse into the economic and political landscape of the Carolingian Empire during this period.