Buy Medieval Spanish Silver Dinero of Alfonso VIII, King of Castile (1158-1214) Online
Authenticity and Certification:
This genuine silver dinero from the historic Toledo mint has been professionally authenticated and encapsulated by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), the world's premier third-party grading service for rare coins. Certified under NGC certification number 8232050-014, it comes securely housed in a tamper-evident slab, ensuring its preservation and verifiable provenance via NGC's online verification system. The holder features a distinctive holographic NGC label for added security.
Historical Significance:
Struck during the reign of Alfonso VIII "el Noble" (the Noble), King of Castile and Toledo from 1158 to 1214, this coin represents a pivotal era in medieval Iberian history. Alfonso VIII was a key figure in the Reconquista, the centuries-long Christian campaign to reclaim the peninsula from Muslim rule. He famously led the Christian forces to victory at the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa in 1212, a turning point that weakened Almohad power and paved the way for the eventual unification of Spain. The dinero, a small silver denomination influenced by Islamic coinage traditions under the Umayyad Caliphate, circulated widely in Castile as everyday currency for trade, taxes, and military payments. Minted in Toledo—a multicultural hub blending Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influences—this type exemplifies the economic and cultural fusion of 12th-century Spain.
Struck during the reign of Alfonso VIII "el Noble" (the Noble), King of Castile and Toledo from 1158 to 1214, this coin represents a pivotal era in medieval Iberian history. Alfonso VIII was a key figure in the Reconquista, the centuries-long Christian campaign to reclaim the peninsula from Muslim rule. He famously led the Christian forces to victory at the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa in 1212, a turning point that weakened Almohad power and paved the way for the eventual unification of Spain. The dinero, a small silver denomination influenced by Islamic coinage traditions under the Umayyad Caliphate, circulated widely in Castile as everyday currency for trade, taxes, and military payments. Minted in Toledo—a multicultural hub blending Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influences—this type exemplifies the economic and cultural fusion of 12th-century Spain.
Design and Specifications:
- Denomination: Dinero (small silver penny equivalent).
- Composition: Billon (silver alloy, typically ~.500-.600 fine silver).
- Weight: Approximately 0.8-1.2 grams (characteristic of the type).
- Diameter: Approximately 17-19 mm.
- Obverse: Features a stylized bust or facing portrait of King Alfonso VIII, often accompanied by a Latin legend such as "+ ALFONSVS REX" (Alfonso King), symbolizing royal authority. The design draws from Roman and Visigothic traditions, adapted for medieval minting.
- Reverse: Typically displays a cross potent or long cross within a circle, with a legend like "+ CASTELLA" or mint signature "TOLLEDO," denoting the Toledo mint. Variants may include stars, pellets, or annulets as control marks, adding to the coin's numismatic appeal.
Condition and Collectibility:
As a survivor from over 800 years ago, this coin showcases the artistry of medieval die-engraving, with intricate lettering and symbols that have endured time. It's a scarce type in high preservation—Toledo mint dineros are noted for their rarity in superior grades, with few examples appearing at auction. Ideal for collectors of medieval European numismatics, Spanish history, or Crusader-era artifacts, it offers tangible connection to a transformative monarch. Comparable certified specimens have realized strong prices at auction, underscoring its investment potential.This is a museum-quality piece of history—own a sliver of the Reconquista in your collection today!
As a survivor from over 800 years ago, this coin showcases the artistry of medieval die-engraving, with intricate lettering and symbols that have endured time. It's a scarce type in high preservation—Toledo mint dineros are noted for their rarity in superior grades, with few examples appearing at auction. Ideal for collectors of medieval European numismatics, Spanish history, or Crusader-era artifacts, it offers tangible connection to a transformative monarch. Comparable certified specimens have realized strong prices at auction, underscoring its investment potential.This is a museum-quality piece of history—own a sliver of the Reconquista in your collection today!
