840-877 France Carolingian Empire Blois Denier PCGS AU-58

PCGS population of 1 coin with none finer. The Carolingian denier from the Blois mint, struck during Charles II the Bald’s reign (840–877 AD), is a silver coin emblematic of West Francia’s monetary standardization following the 864 Edict of Pîtres. It features a Karolus monogram with “+GRATIA D-I REX” (By the Grace of God, King) on the obverse and a cross pattée with “+BLESIANIS CASTRVM” (Castle of Blois) on the reverse, typically weighing 1.36–1.56 grams. The Blois mint, a key administrative center in the Loire Valley, produced these coins as part of Charles’ efforts to centralize royal authority and facilitate trade, distinct from smaller mints like Curtis Sasoniensis (Courgeon/Courtisson) by its inscription and regional prominence.

While the Blois denier primarily reflects Charles the Bald’s coinage, later deniers attributed to Eudes (Odo, 888–898 AD) suggest the mint’s continued activity, possibly as immobilized types retaining earlier designs into the 10th century. These coins, with a dark patina and high collectible value, underscore the Carolingian blend of Christian symbolism and Roman imperial tradition. Compared to other mints like Melle or Quentovic, Blois’ output highlights the empire’s economic structure before its fragmentation, with the Gratia Dei Rex type symbolizing royal legitimacy across West Francia.