Carolingian Empire, Lothar I

Description

The coins found in the Basle area reflect almost the whole history of coins and money in this region from the Middle Ages until the last century. One find of a late hoard and two individual finds are known from the Carolingian period. The denarius of Lothar (died 855), son of Louis the Pious (814-840) and joint ruler with him from 817, bears a right facing head and shoulders image with completely distorted proportions. Probably struck in northern Italy, the coin is difficult to date. The hair of the upper part of the head stands on end, and two very long ribbons are hanging down from the loop in the wreath. Indicated by two semi circular lines, a paludamenfum (cloak) is laid round the powerful neck, and seems to be fixed on each side with a round fibula. The legend gives Lothar's name. The reverse (not illustrated) shows a temple facade intended to represent a church with the legend CHRISTIANA RELIGIO.