FRANCE. Carolingians. Denier, ND (771-793/4). “Ardis” (Uncertain Provencal) Mint. Charlemagne. NGC MS-62.1.20 gms. cf. Depeyrot-56 (Arles); cf. M&G-238 (Indeterminate Mints); cf. MEC-I, 722 (Arles?). Obverse: CARO / LVS in two lines; Reverse: AR / DIS in two lines; between, cross flanked by trefoils. A strongVERY RARE/strong type from Charles the Great (Charlemagne), this boldly struck denier exhibits good centering and a pleasing cabinet tone, and was struck just a few years before he was crowned "Emperor of the Romans" by Pope Leo III on Christmas day in 800--establishing the Holy Roman Empire.
