Discovery of a Unique Coin Featuring a Frankish Queen
Written on
Chapter 1: A Remarkable Archaeological Find
Researchers recently uncovered a coin that mentions a Frankish queen, marking a first in historical records. This artifact comes from the Carolingian period and features the name of Fastrada, the wife of Charlemagne, the king of the Franks and Longobards. Experts believe it is the first coin known to reference a queen.
This information highlights the significance of this discovery in understanding the role of women in historical narratives.
Section 1.1: The Coin’s Significance
This unexpected find has been delivered to the Charlemagne Center in Aachen, where the artifact has drawn considerable interest. The Carolingian period is characterized by the rise of the Carolingian dynasty's power in Western Europe. Among the many artifacts received, this coin stood out to researchers for its historical importance.
The obverse side of the coin features the inscription “Charles, King of the Franks,” alongside his likeness. The reverse side displays “Queen Fastrada,” suggesting it was minted around 793–794. The museum staff notes that featuring a queen on a coin from this era is highly unusual, as no other coins from the Carolingian Empire have depicted a queen before.
Section 1.2: Charlemagne’s Monetary Reform
Charlemagne initiated a significant monetary reform in 790, aiming to establish a standardized coinage system that reflected his authority. This reform included creating a central mint to prevent unauthorized production of currency.
Under this new system, coins displayed the ruler’s name and title on one side, with a central cross image, while the reverse featured the ruler's monogram and the mint's name. Following Charlemagne's coronation as Emperor of Rome, the design evolved to include his bust adorned with a laurel wreath on the obverse and a temple with a cross on the reverse.
Chapter 2: The Legacy of Fastrada
Interestingly, the only woman depicted on Carolingian coinage prior to this discovery was Mary. This coin further underscores the affection Charlemagne had for Fastrada and may symbolize their joint exercise of power.
The video titled "Archaeologists Discovered Over 500 Ancient Coins and A Gold Template for Making Jewelry in Bulgaria" provides insight into related archaeological findings and the significance of such discoveries.
Experts speculate that Charlemagne was inspired by King Offa of Mercia, who had minted a coin featuring his wife, Queen Cynethryth, in 792. This romantic gesture may have influenced Charlemagne, especially considering his son was to marry Offa’s daughter, reflecting the amicable relations between the Franks and the English during the late 8th century.
Who Was Fastrada?
Fastrada, daughter of the Saxon Count Radulf from Lower Saxony, was relatively well-documented compared to other Carolingian queens. In 783, she participated in a revolt against Charlemagne, who had lost his second wife, Hildegard, that same year. Shortly after her death, Charlemagne married Fastrada, likely to strengthen ties with her family in the ongoing conflict against the Saxons.
Their marriage produced two daughters, and historical accounts suggest she played a significant role during Charlemagne's reign. However, she was also described as having a harsh demeanor, allegedly encouraging her husband to act with cruelty, including the confinement of his son, Pepin the Hunchback. Their union lasted for 11 years until her death in 794.
The War of the Two Roses: A Historical Overview
The War of the Two Roses, renowned for its dramatic title, also encompasses a bloody history that reshaped the English monarchy.
Did you enjoy this article? If so, please leave a comment or a tip to support my writing. Follow me for daily updates on new articles! Thank you!
