World Silver France - 1012-1037 Denier, Déols PCGS XF45

FRANCE, Provincial. Déols. Robert II, aka the Pious or the Wise. 1012-1037. AR Denier : ODO : DVX, cross pattée / • DOLEO CIVE (S retrograde), pentagram with central pellet. Legros 1328; Poey d'Avant 1929; Boudeau 272; Roberts 4402.  PCGS has graded one as XF45 with none finer. This is indeed a rare issue.

Official seal of Robert II. Image: Wikimedia Commons.

Robert II (circa 972-20 July 1031), was also known as the Pious or the Wise. He was King of the Franks from 966 to 1031, the second sovereign from the Capetian dynasty. He was crowned Junior King in 987 and assisted his father, Hugh Capet, on military affairs (particularly during the two sieges of Laon in 987 and 988). He was educated by Gerbert of Aurillac (the future Pope Sylvester II) in Reims. Thus he was well-versed in religious questions when he led the Council of Saint-Basle de Verzy in 991 and the Council in Chelles in 994. After becoming sole ruler in 996, Robert continued the political work of his father, maintaining the alliance with the Duchy of Normandy and the County of Anjou. Therefore he was able to limit the ambitions of Count Odo II of Blois.