Coins of Europe
3
Dernier -
Pope John IX
898–900 AD: Issued in Rome during a turbulent period of political realignment in Italy, the obverse monogram and outer circular inscription explicitly link papal spiritual authority with Carolingian-style imperial secular power. The reverse portrait of Saint Peter highlights the Apostolic See as the core issuer and guarantor of the coinage.
2
Denier -
Carolignian Empire
812–814 AD: Issued during the final years of Charlemagne's reign following his imperial coronation, the obverse deliberately revives Roman imperial portraiture to assert his status as Emperor of the West. The reverse features an architectural representation of a city gate, a symbol of civic authority and fortification, framed by a cross pattée and mint inscriptions.
1
Penny-
Kingdom of York
895–905 AD: Struck at York during the period of Viking rule in Northumbria, this silver penny seamlessly blends Scandinavian influence with Christian religious iconography. The Latin legend on the reverse quotes Psalm 97, serving as a public declaration of faith while establishing economic continuity.