Regensburg Pfennig from the Reign of Heinrich IV, King Heinrich II (1002-1024): A Numismatic Insight
Historical Overview:
Heinrich IV, posthumously known as Heinrich the Saint or Heinrich II, was the last ruler of the Ottonian dynasty. His reign from 1002 to 1024 was significant for the consolidation of the Holy Roman Empire. Heinrich II was deeply religious, and his efforts in church reform and the spread of Christianity earned him sainthood after his death.
Regensburg, located in modern-day Bavaria, was an important center for trade and administration during the Middle Ages. It served as one of the key mints for the Dukes of Bavaria, producing coins that circulated widely in Central Europe.
The Pfennig:
Ruler: King Heinrich II (Heinrich IV, Duke of Bavaria) Date: Minted approximately between 1018 and 1024, late in his reign. Mint: Regensburg, a mint under the control of the Bavarian dukes. Denomination: Pfennig, a common medieval coin. Weight: 1.54 grams, which was standard for the period. Moneyer: OZI, with the distinctive "Z" flipped, which is noted in the coin's description.
Design:
Obverse: Features a crowned bust facing right. This portrayal of the king was not only a symbol of royal authority but also had a religious connotation, reflecting Heinrich's piety. Reverse: Displays a cross in the center. In the angles of the cross, you find a ring, three dots, a wedge, and three dots again. This layout was typical for the era, symbolizing the Christian faith of the ruler and the kingdom.
Numismatic Details:
Patina: The coin is described as having a beautiful patina, which collectors often prize for the aesthetic it adds to the coin's appearance. Patina refers to the natural aging of the coin's surface, often giving it a pleasing tone. Condition: AU/UNC (About Uncirculated to Uncirculated), indicating that this coin has seen very little wear, if any, and retains much of its original detail.
Significance:
This Pfennig from Regensburg is more than just currency; it's an artifact of medieval European history, reflecting the political, religious, and economic conditions of the time. The minting in Regensburg highlights the city's importance in the economic network of the Holy Roman Empire. The coin's design elements reflect the Christian ethos of Heinrich II's rule, emphasizing his legacy as a saintly king.
For numismatists, such coins are valuable not only for their scarcity but also for their historical narrative. They provide insights into the minting technology, the artistic styles of the period, and the economic policies of medieval rulers. Moreover, the condition of this coin, described as AU/UNC, makes it particularly desirable for collectors aiming to preserve a piece of history in near-pristine condition.
Conclusion:
The Pfennig of Heinrich IV from Regensburg stands as a testament to the intertwining of religion, politics, and economy in medieval Europe. Its existence today allows us to connect with the past, offering a tangible link to the era of Heinrich II, whose legacy as a ruler and saint continues to be studied and revered.