Bracteate Denar

Holy Roman Empire / Central Europe (German States) · c. 12th - 13th Century (Medieval Period)

A thin, cup-shaped medieval silver coin stamped on one side only, showing a stylized cross and architectural or figurative elements.

Country: Holy Roman Empire / Central Europe (German States)
Year: c. 12th - 13th Century (Medieval Period)
Denomination: Denar (Pfennig)
Metal: Silver (approx. 800-950 fine)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified September 20, 2026More holy roman empire / central europe (german states) coins →

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Overview

A thin, cup-shaped medieval silver coin stamped on one side only, showing a stylized cross and architectural or figurative elements.

Historical significance

Bracteates were a unique form of medieval currency produced in Central Europe where thin metal blanks were struck with a single die, causing the design to appear incuse on the reverse. They were frequently subject to 'renovatio monetae' (recoinage), where rulers forced holders to exchange old coins for new ones at a loss, serving as a form of taxation.

Obverse (front)

Struck in high relief showing a central cross with decorative motifs, floral elements, or architectural arches within a beaded or plain border.

Reverse (back)

Blank or concave incuse (negative) impression of the obverse design due to the thinness of the flan and the single-die striking technique.

Estimated value

$30-$150 depending on condition, clarity of strike, and specific mint region

What drives this coin's value

Centering of the strike, completeness of the design, absence of cracks (common in thin bracteates), and historical provenance

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine for a medieval bracteate, featuring typical wear and a deep cabinet tone

Mintage & rarity

Scarce to rare due to high loss rates over centuries and periodic recoining

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for natural cabinet toning and correct weight for diameter. Modern counterfeits are usually cast rather than struck and lack the characteristic high relief of genuine bracteates.

Notable varieties & errors

Countless local feudal and ecclesiastical mint variations exist, making specialized regional cataloging necessary for exact attribution.

Similar coins

Other Central European bracteates from Saxony, Thuringia, Meissen, and various bishoprics

Care & preservation

Store in inert Mylar or archival coin flips to prevent environmental damage. Never clean, polish, or wash medieval silver as this destroys patina and reduces numismatic value.

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Heller

Holy Roman Empire / Free Imperial City of Aachen (now Germany) · The exact year is not visible on the coin. These types of hellers from Aachen were minted over a period, likely in the late 17th or 18th century.

12 Heller