CVC & Collecatbles presents this medieval Hungary Obol was struck during the brief reign of Stephen V, King of Hungary from 1270 to 1272. This tiny silver denomination represents the distinctive hammered coinage of the medieval Kingdom of Hungary. NGC has authenticated this example as XF Details – Environmental Damage.
Coin Highlights:
- Country: Hungary
- Date Range: 1270-1272
- Denomination: Obol
- Ruler: Stephen V
- Composition: Silver
- Coinage: Hammered
- Period: Medieval Hungary
- Dynasty: Árpád Dynasty
- Grade: NGC XF Details
- NGC Designation: Environmental Damage
- Obverse: Medieval symbolic design within a beaded border.
- Reverse: Stylized medieval device surrounded by a circular border.
- Certification: Authenticated and encapsulated by NGC.
Design & Devices
Like many Hungarian fractional coins of the 13th century, this obol uses compact symbolic imagery designed for a very small flan. Both sides feature stylized medieval devices enclosed within circular borders, with portions of the original details remaining clearly visible.
The small size of the obol illustrates the practical nature of medieval fractional silver coinage, which provided denominations for transactions below the value of the larger denar.
Stephen V History
Stephen V ruled Hungary from 1270 until 1272 as a member of the Árpád Dynasty, one of the most important royal houses in medieval Hungarian history. He was the son of Béla IV and had already exercised considerable political and military authority before becoming king.
Stephen’s independent reign lasted only about two years. His death in 1272 brought his young son, Ladislaus IV, to the Hungarian throne, making Stephen V’s royal coinage representative of a notably brief medieval reign.
Historical Significance
During the 13th century, Hungary occupied an important position between Central and Eastern Europe. Silver denars and smaller obols formed an essential part of its monetary system, with the obol serving as a fractional denomination for smaller transactions.
Coins of Stephen V provide a direct connection to the later Árpád period and the political environment of medieval Hungary during the second half of the 13th century.
Condition
NGC has authenticated this example as XF Details, indicating substantial surviving detail consistent with an Extremely Fine coin. The holder notes Environmental Damage, preventing assignment of a standard numerical grade.
Collectibility
With its 1270-1272 date range, silver composition, tiny medieval denomination, Árpád Dynasty connection, short-reigning monarch, and NGC authentication, this Stephen V Obol is an appealing piece for collectors of medieval Hungarian and European coinage. Find more alike here!
