The Dauphin and the Maid: Charles VII and Joan of Arc

Discussion in 'World Coins' started by Amit Vyas, Oct 30, 2024.

  1. Amit Vyas

    Amit Vyas Well-Known Member

    The Dauphin and the Maid: Charles VII and Joan of Arc

    Charles VII, born on February 22, 1403, inherited a fractured kingdom in the midst of the Hundred Years' War. Upon his father's death in 1422, the English proclaimed their infant king as ruler of both England and France, challenging Charles's legitimacy as heir to the French throne.

    Amidst this turmoil, a remarkable figure emerged—Joan of Arc, a peasant girl from Domrémy. Inspired by divine visions, Joan believed she was chosen by God to help Charles reclaim his rightful throne. She persuaded Charles to grant her command of troops, and under her leadership, the French won several key battles, including the lifting of the siege of Orléans in 1429. This victory was a turning point in the war and restored French morale.

    Joan's influence on Charles's court was profound. She accompanied him to his coronation in Reims in 1429, solidifying his legitimacy. However, her success was short-lived. In 1430, Joan was captured by the Burgundians and sold to the English. She endured a grueling trial, accused of heresy and witchcraft, orchestrated by the English who sought to undermine Charles's claim to the throne.

    Despite Joan's valiant defense, she was convicted and executed by burning at the stake in Rouen on May 30, 1431, the very year in which this coin was struck. Her death was a profound tragedy for France, but her martyrdom ignited a lasting legacy. Twenty-five years later, Joan's trial was reviewed, and she was posthumously declared innocent of all charges.

    Charles VII continued to rule and gradually consolidated his power, establishing royal administrative institutions and stabilizing the French economy. His reign marked a period of recovery and renewal for France, setting the stage for the decline of English influence and the eventual end of the Hundred Years' War.

    France, Charles VII le Victorieux (the Victorious) (1422-1461), AR Blanc dentillé, Tours mint, 1431, Duplessy 472A (2.94 g, 26 mm)

    Obverse: ✠◦KAROLVS: FRAHCORVm RЄX (tower). Crowned coat of arms in polylobe.

    Reverse: ✠◦SIT:nOmE: DnI:BЄNЄDICTV (tower). Cross fleurée within polylobe.

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  3. Lon Chaney

    Lon Chaney Well-Known Member

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  4. willieboyd2

    willieboyd2 First Class Poster

    I became interested in Charles' son Louis XI, the "Spider King" and I have some coins issued by him.

    :)
     
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