Serbian Medieval Coins

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355). First Serbian emperor of the Nemanjic state.

Silver "5 lines" type. 21mm, 1.465g.

Obverse: Serbian Cyrillic legend in 5 lines: +СТ ЕФАНbB - - bХaБaБ • ΛaГОВΕP ΝΗЦPbb (STEFAN IN CHRIST GOD PIOUS CZAR). 2 lines and a dot.

Reverse: Christ sitting on the throne facing, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems, sigla N - O to the sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triangle signs around the throne. Small flower under left elbow.

Reference: Jov 11-12, LJ (IX-5), I (6.11.1), D67/102-106.

Comment: Unique and only variant of the referenced type here. Jovanovic states in his book that there are only 20 registered examples of this type but they are all with the maker signs at the end of some of the lines of the letters. For example, on the majority of them at the end of 3 lines of letters, mainly 1st, 3rd and 5th line, there is a sign of a small flower. This one is the only known example without such maker signs. There are only 2 short lines above "a" letters, 2nd row and a dot at the end of 3rd row. Extremely rare and well preserved condition. Like the one below #DUS20, this is also one of the most beautiful types of Serbian medieval coins. Uncleaned condition and lovely patina.

20 September 1349 Emperor Stefan Dušan signature from a document where he regulates in great detail the rights and obligations of Dubrovnik merchants and other issues in mutual relations. Serbian Royal Documents at the State Archives in Dubrovnik (1186-1479) 13490920 – Dušan 1C. It reads: СТЕФАНb BbХPba БΛaГОВΕPΝΗ ЦaPb СРБΛЕmb H ГPKOmb (СТЕФАН У ХРИСТА БОГА БΛАГОВΕPΗИ ЦАP СРБA И ГPKА - STEFAN IN CHRIST GOD PIOUS EMPEROR OF SERBS AND GREEKS). Full document can be viewed at Medieval Artifacts page.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "4 lines" type. 20mm, 1.399g.

Obverse: Serbian Cyrillic legend in 4 lines: +CΦNb • • BbXaБaБΛ • ΓOBЋPNH ЧPbIЄ (STEFAN IN CHRIST GOD PIOUS CZAR). 3 dots, 2 dots between 1st and the 2nd line and a single dot between the 2nd and the 3rd line.

Reverse: Christ sitting on the throne facing, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems, sigla R - V to the sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triangle signs around the throne.

Reference: Jov 35-11, LJ (IX-4), I (6.10), J 11-11, D (68/114-117).

Comment: Beautifully toned. Some doubling on the reverse, otherwise, extremely fine. There are only 15 registered examples and on each one there are 2 dots between the 1st and the 2nd line and a single dot between the 2nd and the 3rd line forming a imaginary triangle.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "coronation" type, struck 1346 AD. 20mm, 1.403g.

Obverse: Dusan standing, facing, in royal attire, holding double cross scepter and crowned by two angels. Serbian initials: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to the sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Typical R and V siglas to the sides. 4 triple pellets around the throne. Large circle under left elbow.

Reference: J 11-15, Jov 11 9.4, Lj 112/57, D 66/16-18 96-98.

Comment: Lovely dark natural patina and very attractive original design. Very well preserved with clear details. Issued in conjunction with the elevation of the state from Serbian Kingdom to Serbian Empire in Skoplje, 16th April 1346. Unusual and very rare depiction of the young king holding golden double cross. Below is a fresco from Monastery Lesnovo XIV century, Macedonia, of Czar Dušan holding same golden double cross.

Arguably this is one of, if not the most important Serbian medieval coin, because of the reason for the issue, the importance of the the event and the representation of the king just as it appears in the Monastery.

Only 10 registered examples. This is best example known.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "coronation" type, struck 1346 AD. 21mm, 1.577g.

Obverse: Dusan standing, facing, in royal attire and crowned by two angels. Serbian initials: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to the sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. N and I siglas to the sides. 4 triple pellets around the throne. Large circle under left elbow.

Reference: J 11-16, Jov 11 9.5, Lj 110/1.

Comment: Lovely dark natural patina and very attractive original design. Very well preserved with clear details. Issued in conjunction with the elevation of the state from Serbian Kingdom to Serbian Empire in Skoplje, 16th April 1346. Unusual and very rare depiction of the young king but without golden double cross like example above.

Only 2 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "coronation" type, struck 1346 AD. 20mm, 1.417g.

Obverse: Dusan standing on the pillow with 2 lion heads, facing, in royal attire and crowned by two angels. Serbian initials: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to the sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. + and S siglas to the sides. 4 triple pellets around the throne. Large circle under left elbow.

Reference: J 11-14, Jov 11 9.3, Lj VIII 4.

Comment: Lovely natural patina and very attractive original design. Very well preserved with clear details. Issued in conjunction with the elevation of the state from Serbian Kingdom to Serbian Empire in Skoplje, 16th April 1346. Unusual and very rare depiction of the young king holding a single cross. S sigla is decorative with lines extending from both sides ending with a ball or dot.

Only 8 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "coronation" type, struck 1346 AD. 20mm, 1.587g.

Obverse: Dusan facing, in royal attire, holding cross tipped scepter, crowned by two angels. Serbian initials: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to the sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. No sigla. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: Compare to J 51, Jov 11 9.1-9.5, D (66).

Comment: An original design, issued in conjunction with the elevation of the state from kingdom to empire in 1346. Unusual and rare depiction of the king and Jesus with a much larger head then most examples. Lovely dark natural patina and preservation with just a slight damage. Reverse looks like "double cross" examples below #DUS67, #DUS24, #DUS26 and #DUS27.

Only 66 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "coronation" type, struck in 1346. 20mm, 1.442g.

Obverse: Dusan standing dressed in decorative royal attire, holding cross tipped sceptre and being crowned by two angels. Serbian initials: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to the sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 6 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triple pellets around the throne. Moneyer marks: R - V to the sides.

Reference: Compare to J 51, Jov 11 9.1-9.5, D 66.

Comment: Lovely dark natural patina and preservation for its age.

It is an original design, issued in conjunction with the elevation of the Serbian state from kingdom to empire and crowning of king Stefan III Dusan as a emperor of all Serbs and Greeks on 16th April 1346.

Unusual and very rare depiction of the king’s face.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "coronation" type, struck 1346 AD. 20mm, 1.459g.

Obverse: Dusan facing, in royal attire, holding cross tipped scepter, crowned by two angels. Serbian initials: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to the sides.

Reference: J 51, Jov 11-9.1, D (66).

Comment: An original design, issued in conjunction with the elevation of the state from kingdom to empire in 1346. Fine die-work by what is sometimes known as "engraver No. 2". Obverse double struck. We will call this crown round crown type 2.

Only 66 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "coronation" type, struck 1346. 21mm, 1.593g.

Obverse: Dusan facing, in royal attire, holding cross tipped scepter, crowned by two angels. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to the sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Sigla O. 4 triple pellets around the throne. Small o under left elbow.

Reference: J 51, Jov 11-9.4, D (66).

Comment: An original design, issued in conjunction with the elevation of the state from kingdom to empire in 1346. Same as #DUS16 above just in not as good condition. Natural blue discoloration and with lovely toning and patina.

Only 10 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "profile" type. 15mm, 0.386g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena seated, facing each other, scepter between them topped with lily, each holding short scepter topped with St. Andrew's cross. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to the sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: Jov 11-72, J 12-42.4, D (81).

Comment: King of Serbia from 8th September 1331 and Emperor of the Serbs and Greeks from 16th April 1346 until his death of a fever at Devoll on 20th December 1355. He was buried in the foundations of the Monastery of the Holy Archangels near Prizren. Today his remains are buried in Church of St. Mark in Belgrade. Extremely rare and scarce king and queen profile type. We will call this crown branched crown type 1.

Only 12 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "profile" type. 14mm, 0.366g.

Reference: Jov 11-72, J 12-42.4, D (81).

Comment: Similar to example above with better visible double cross handle and base in the middle. Obverse not as good.

Only 12 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "horseman" type. 21mm, 1.234g.

Obverse: Dusan on horseback facing, wearing round crown and holding cross tipped scepter. Serbian legend: СФb ZPb (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) above.

Reverse: Bust of Christ facing, holding 2 scrolls, siglas R on the left side and V on the right side. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above.

Reference: J 11 10.2, D 74/2 175.

Comment: Uncleaned condition and lovely patina with the King Uros IV Dusan riding on the horse shown walking. Very rare and interesting type with usual moneyer marks.

According to Jovanovic book there are only 2 registered examples but this one is not shown. Shown example doesn't have cross tipped scepter on the obverse.

2 Scrolls could possibly be a scroll of the gospels and akakia.

The akakia, previously known as an anexikakia was a cylindrical purple silk roll containing dust which is depicted in wall mosaics and on coinage as being held by Byzantine emperors during ceremonies. It symbolized the mortal nature of all men.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "horseman" type. 21mm, 1.518g.

Obverse: Dusan on horseback facing, wearing round crowned and holding cross tipped scepter. Serbian legend: СФb ZPb (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) above.

Reverse: Bust of Christ facing, holding 2 scrolls, siglas R on the left side and OS with the sword through on the right side. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above.

Reference: J 11 10.2, D 74/3 178.

Comment: Uncleaned condition and lovely patina with the emperor Stefan Dusan riding on the horse shown walking. Very interesting type and sigla with the sword as a moneyer mark.

According to Jovanovic book there are only 2 registered examples but this one is not shown. Shown example doesn't have cross tipped scepter on the obverse or OS with the sword through on the right side on the reverse.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "horseman" type. 21mm, 1.414g.

Obverse: Dusan on riding on the horseback, facing, wearing round crown and holding cross tipped scepter. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) above. Dot under letter b.

Reverse: Bust of Christ facing, holding akakia in his left hand and blessing with his right hand. Siglas N - O to the sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above.

Reference: Unpublished variant compare to D 74/4 179-181, J 11 10.1, Jov 11-27, LJ (VIII-22), I (6.11).

Comment: One of the most, if not the most beautiful type of Serbian medieval coins. Uncleaned condition, lovely toning and natural patina with a great detail of the emperor Stefan Dusan, his royal attire and all horses decorations. This type is different from those published by Jovanovic and Dimitrijevic, horses head is pointing more forward showing longer reins and horses left leg is bent at 90 degree angle almost as if he is posing for a picture.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "horseman" type. 22mm, 1.686g.

Obverse: Dusan on horseback facing, wearing round crowned and holding cross tipped scepter. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) above. Dot under letter b.

Reverse: Bust of Christ facing, holding akakia in his left hand and blessing with his right hand. Siglas N-O to the sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above.

Reference: Unpublished variant compare to D 74/4 179-181, J 11 10.1, Jov 11-27, LJ (VIII-22), I (6.11).

Comment: One of the most beautiful types of Serbian medieval coins. Uncleaned condition, lovely toning and natural patina with a good detail of the emperor Stefan Dusan and just like example above, with horses head pointing more forward and bent left knee. Most horses decorations are visible. Slightly larger then example above due to excess silver on the left side left after strike during minting.

This coin and the one above are most likely minted using same die what is extremely rare to find and have. Same diagonal lines are visible in front of the both horses, between front of the horses legs, extending upwards above his left leg. Image and details are the same. Obvious differences are excess silver in different places and signs of doubling on the reverse on the first example.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "horseman" type. 21mm, 1.423g.

Obverse: Dusan on horseback facing, wearing round crowned and holding cross tipped scepter. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) above.

Reverse: Bust of Christ, facing, holding akakia in his left hand and blessing with his right hand. Siglas N - O to the sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above.

Reference: J 11 10.1, Jov 11-27, LJ (VIII-22), I (6.11).

Comment: One of the most beautiful types of Serbian medieval coins. Uncleaned condition, lovely patina with a good detail of the emperor Stefan Dusan with horses head pointing down.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "horseman" type. 20mm, 1.540g.

Obverse: Dusan on horseback facing, wearing round crowned and holding cross tipped scepter. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) above.

Reference: Maric 1956 T XVI 11,12, J 52,53, Jov 11-27, LJ (VIII-22-24), I (6.11.1), D (74/4)

Comment: Very well preserved condition. One of the most beautiful types of Serbian medieval coins. Uncleaned condition, lovely patina with a good detail of the emperor Stefan Dusan, his horse and horses decorations.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "horseman" type. 20mm, 1.850g.

Obverse: Dusan on horseback facing, wearing round crowned and holding cross tipped scepter. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) above.

Reverse: Bust of Christ facing, holding akakia in his left hand and blessing with his right hand. Sigla N - O to sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above.

Reference: Maric 1956 T XVI 11,12, J 52,53, Jov 11-27, LJ (VIII-22-24), I (6.11.1), D (74/4).

Comment: Very well preserved in uncleaned condition with lovely patina. These imperial but beautiful types have now become very rare and very hard to find.

This example has visible signs of doubling that happened during slight die move at the time of minting. Horses front left leg is doubled.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "horseman" type. 20mm, 1.870g.

Obverse: Dusan on horseback facing, wearing round crowned and holding cross tipped scepter. Serbian legend: СФb ZPP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) above.

Reference: Maric 1956 T XVI 11,12, J 52,53, Jov 11-27, LJ (VIII-22-24), I (6.11.1), D (74/4).

Comment: Very well preserved in uncleaned condition with lovely patina. These imperial but beautiful types have now become very rare and very hard to find.

This example has visible signs of doubling that happened during slight die move at the time of minting. There are second P, a line from Z letter on the left side of it, a line above horses neck, dotted part next to horses back leg and a moved emperor body. Horses right leg is unusually thin.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "horseman" type. 20mm, 1.489g.

Obverse: Dusan on horseback facing, wearing round crowned and holding cross tipped scepter. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) above. X on the left side of the leg of the horse.

Reverse: Bust of Christ facing, holding akakia in his left hand and blessing with his right hand. Sigla N-O to sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above.

Reference: Maric 1956 T XVI 11,12, J 52,53, Jov 11-27, LJ (VIII-22-24), I (6.11.1), D (74/4).

Comment: Another well preserved condition, not as good quality as above. Uncleaned condition, lovely patina that can only be built over centuries, still very good detail of the King Uros IV Dusan, his horse and horses decorations. Curious X next to horses leg on the left side.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "horseman" type.

Obverse: Dusan on horseback facing, wearing round crowned and holding cross tippedscepter. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) above.

Reverse: Bust of Christ facing, holding akakia, sigla N-O to sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above.

Reference: Maric 1956 T XVI 11,12, J 52,53, Jov 11-27, LJ (VIII-22-24), I (6.11.1), D (74/4)

Comment: Extremely well preserved condition, superb, museum quality. One of the most beautiful types of Serbian medieval coins. Uncleaned condition, lovely patina that can only be built over centuries, extreme detail of the emperor Stefan Dusan, his horse and horses decorations. Double strike only slightly visible at the front legs of the horse. We will call this crown round crown type 1.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "scepter" type. 18mm, 0.6g.

Obverse: King sitting on the throne holding a triple dot tipped cross scepter and wearing round crown. Serbian Cyrillic legend: ⛬ СIТЕIΝb • ЦPb ⛬ (STEFAN CZAR). 3 dots at the end of description, 4 dots and 3 dots on each side of the kings head.

Reverse: Christ standing, facing, blessing with the raised right hand, siglas C and δ (Greek delta) with a + on the top to the sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 1 triple dotted mark on the left and 3 on the right.

Reference: J 11-17, I (6.17), Jov 11 18, D 50/5.

Comment: Extremely rare and well preserved condition. Like the one below this is also one of the most beautiful types of Serbian medieval coins. Uncleaned condition and lovely patina. Only 8 registered examples. We will call this crown round crown type 1.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "scepter" type. 18mm, 1.1g.

Obverse: King sitting on the throne holding a double cross scepter and wearing round crown. Serbian Cyrillic legend: СITEINb ЦPb (STEFAN CZAR). 3 dots at the end of description, 4 dots and 3 dots on each side of the kings head.

Reverse: Christ standing, facing, blessing with the raised right hand, siglas S and T. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 1 triple dotted mark on the left and 3 on the right. Bird counter-mark.

Reference: D 50 6.

Comment: Extremely rare and only published by Dimitrijevic but not as well preserved condition as the one above. Slightly different variant and also one of the most beautiful types of Serbian medieval coins. Not published by Jovanovic. Uncleaned condition and lovely patina. We will call this crown round crown type 1.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "scepter" type. 19mm, 0.8g.

Obverse: Dusan crowned and in loros facing on low back throne, holding cruciform scepter, Latin legend +STEFAN INPRATO (STEFAN EMPEROR).

Reverse: Christ standing in glory, blessing with the raised right hand, holding book of gospels. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Siglas R - V to sides. 4 stars on the left and 5 on the right around.

Reference: J 11.19.1, Jov 11-18, LJ (VII-15), I (6.16.2), D 48/2.

Comment: Very rare and an early imperial issue (ca. 1346), possibly the first one with Latin legends, it followed closely the "coronation" type. This one is a bit larger then the rest on this page of the same type. There are only 7 registered examples and 5 clipped and counter-marked. This one is not clipped or counter-marked.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" type. Rudnik mint. 20mm, 1.9g.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, wearing full body armor, holding sword over his lap. Latin legend: + REX RASIE ST • IP • ROMA • (KING OF RASKA [SERBIA], STEFAN EMPEROR OF THE ROMANOI [ROMANS OR GREEK BYZANTINE ])

Reverse: Christ enthroned with both hands raised, holding book of gospels decorated with 4 squares, siglas R - V. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triangle signs around the throne.

Reference: J 37, Jov 11.7.1, Lj (VII-17), D 43/1/1 Page 132.

Comment: Excellent quality and very good clear detail with lovely natural patina. Early imperial type - mainly full flan and not counter-marked as many others were. Accomplished rendition of Christ, in the best "Ragusan style" characteristic of certain Rudnik mint issues. King depicted with a medallion around his neck and a more round crown.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" type. Rudnik mint. 20mm, 1.2g.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, wearing full body armor, holding sword over his lap. Latin legend: +RE • X • RIA ST IP ROIOM (KING OF RASKA [SERBIA], STEFAN EMPEROR OF THE ROMANOI [ROMANS OR GREEK BYZANTINE])

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems, only middle gem is round. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Initials ST on the left and partially visible face on the right side. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: J 37, Jov 11-7.4, LJ (VII-18), I (6.8.1.b), D 44/8/27.

Comment: Early imperial type - Czar depicted with a more rounded crown. A unique type with a references in Latin, as the KING OF RASKA [SERBIA], STEFAN EMPEROR OF THE ROMANOI [ROMANS OR GREEK BYZANTINE].

Only 23 registered examples, also 13 counter-marked and 2 copper counterfeited.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" type. Rudnik mint. 20mm, 1.3g.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, wearing full body armor, holding sword over his lap. Latin legend: + RE • X • RIA ST IP ROIOM (KING OF RASKA [SERBIA], STEFAN EMPEROR OF THE ROMANOI [ROMANS OR GREEK BYZANTINE]).

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Siglas N - δ (Greek delta) to the sides. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: J 37, Jov 11-7.4, LJ (VII-18), I (6.8.1.b), D 44/8/23.

Comment: Early imperial type - Czar depicted with a more rounded crown. A unique type with a references in Latin, as the "King of Raska [Serbia] Emperor of the Roima [Byzantines - Romans]".

Only 23 registered examples, also 13 counter-marked and 2 copper counterfeited.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" type. Rudnik mint. 20mm, 0.95g.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, wearing full body armor, holding sword over his lap. Latin legend: + REX RIA STIROIOM (KING OF RASKA [SERBIA], STEFAN EMPEROR OF THE ROMANOI [ROMANS OR GREEK BYZANTINE]).

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Siglas R and δ (Greek delta) on the sides. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: J 37, Jov 11-7.4, LJ (VII-18), I (6.8.1.b), D 44/8/23.

Comment: Early imperial type - Czar depicted with a rounded crown a prominent shoulders as a part of a full body armor. A unique type with a references in Latin, as the "King of Raska [Serbia] Emperor of the Roima [Byzantines - Romans]".

Only 23 registered examples, also 13 counter-marked and 2 copper counterfeited.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" type. Rudnik mint. 20mm, 1.2g.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, wearing full body armor, holding sword over his lap. Latin legend: + PEX PIA ST IP POIOMA (KING OF RASKA [SERBIA], STEFAN EMPEROR OF THE ROMANOI [ROMANS OR GREEK BYZANTINE]).

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triple pellets around the throne. Small o under left elbow.

Reference: Similar to J 37, Jov 11-7.4, LJ (VII-16,18), I (6.8.1.b).

Comment: Early smaller imperial type - Czar depicted with a more rounded crown with hair locks sticking out not seen on previous examples of similar type #DUS57 and #DUS28 but present on #DUS42. A unique type with a references in Latin, as the "King of Raska [Serbia] Emperor of the Poima [Byzantines - Romans]". Smaller in size then other examples with a letter P instead of R throughout. It could be that Cyrillic P was used instead of Latin R.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" type. Rudnik mint. 20mm, 0.91g.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, wearing full body armor holding sword over his lap. Latin legend: + REIRA ST IP ROM (KING OF RASKA [SERBIA], STEFAN EMPEROR OF THE ROMANOI [ROMANS OR GREEK BYZANTINE]). Large O at the bottom of kings feet.

Reference: D 44/6 19,20, D 44/7 21.

Comment: Early smaller imperial type. A unique type with a references in Latin, as the "King of Raska [Serbia] Emperor of the [Byzantines - Romans]". Description is shorter but using larger letters. Interesting example with a rare face with spiky hair and a pointy beard.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "scepter" type. 19mm, 1.1g.

Obverse: Dusan crowned, in loros facing on low back throne, holding cruciform scepter, Latin legend +STEPAN INPERATO (STEFAN EMPEROR). 3 dots on the chest.

Reverse: Christ standing in glory, blessing with the raised right hand, holding book of gospels, stars around; square Bulgarian counter-mark in center. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Siglas R - V to sides.

Reference: J 11.19.1, Jov 11-18, LJ (VII-15), I (6.16.2).

Comment: Very rare and an early imperial issue (ca. 1346), possibly the first one with Latin legends; it followed closely the "coronation" type. Virtually all surviving specimens, rare as they are, are found in hoards near the Danube delta area called Dobrudja, where they moved with eastward commerce and even though typically clipped and/or counter marked to fit the monetary system of the contemporary Bulgarian state this one escaped the melting fate and entered local circulation.

There are only 7 registered examples and 5 clipped and counter-marked. This one is not clipped or counter-marked.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "scepter" type. 18mm, 1g.

Obverse: Dusan crowned and in loros facing on low back throne, holding cruciform scepter, Latin legend +STEFAN INPERATO (STEFAN EMPEROR).

Reverse: Christ in glory, blessing with the raised right hand, holding book of gospels, square counter-mark in the center. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Sigla R. 4 stars on the left and 5 on the right around.

Reference: J50, Jov 11-18, LJ (VII-15), I (6.16.2).

Comment: Very rare and an early imperial issue (around 1346), possibly the first one with Latin legends, it followed closely the "coronation" type. Virtually all surviving specimens, rare as they are, are found in hoards near the Danube delta area called Dobrudja, where they moved with eastward commerce and even though typically clipped and/or counter-marked to fit the monetary system of the contemporary Bulgarian state this one escaped the melting fate and entered local circulation.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "scepter" type. 17mm, 0.6g.

Obverse: Dusan crowned and in loros facing on low back throne, holding cruciform scepter, Latin legend +STEFAN INPERATO (STEFAN EMPEROR).

Reverse: Christ in glory, blessing with the raised right hand, holding book of gospels, stars to sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Square counter-mark in the center.

Reference: J50, Jov 11-18, LJ (VII-15), I (6.16.2).

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "scepter" type. 16mm, 0.8g.

Obverse: Dusan crowned and in loros facing on low back throne, holding cruciform scepter, Latin legend +STEFAN INPERATO (STEFAN EMPEROR).

Reverse: Christ in glory, blessing with the raised right hand, holding book of gospels, stars to sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Weak square counter-mark in the center. Sigla R on the left side.

Reference: J 50, Jov 11-18, LJ (VII-15), I (6.16.2).

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "helmet" type. 16mm, 0.7g.

Obverse: Ornamented helmet pointing left. Latin legend: STEPA GRV INPERAT (STEFAN BY THEGRACE EMPEROR). Triple dotted pellet at the bottom. Deep lines on the face of the helmet.

Reverse: Christ enthroned with both hands raised, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Siglas N and O to the sides. 4 triple dotted pellets around the throne.

Reference: D 59 56.

Comment: Rare variant with STEPAGRV on the right side. GRV is possibly a variation of GRA meaning GRACE. Commonly found description reads DEI GRA ("by the Grace of God"). Not published by Jovanovic. Lovely patina and condition. Clipped but not counter-marked.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "helmet" type. 19mm, 0.89g.

Obvеrse: Ornamented helmet facing left. Latin legend: STEFAN INPERATO R (STEFAN EMPEROR) around. 3 dots on the face of the helmet.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems, sigla N - O to the sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Small o under left elbow.

Reference: J 11 13, Jov 11-23, Lj VII-11, D 59 47.

Comment: Rare example with lovely natural patina. Emperor title has separated R and kings name appears with reversed S. This example must have followed coronation example and made by the same moneyer as reverse is almost identical. Please compare with #DUS25 and a 5 line example #DUS41. Helmet has 4 dotted mark as a decoration.

Only 1 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "helmet" type. 18mm, 1.074g.

Obvеrse: Ornamented helmet facing left. Latin legend: STEFANV INPERATO (STEFAN EMPEROR) around. 2 triple dotted marks between the name and the title and 4 more on each corner of the square helmet decoration. Within this square there are 2 large letters: TO.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Moneyer marks to the sides, siglas N and O. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above.

Reference: J 11.12.4, Jov 1121.

Comment: Very rare example, maybe rarest helmet type, with lovely natural patina and color. Letters TO are not very visible but comparison with another known example below proves it is this particular type.

Only 4 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver “helmet” type. 19mm, 1.082g

Obverse: Ornamented helmet pointing left. Latin description: MONITAS INPERATO (MONEY OF THE EMPEROR) around.

Reverse: Christ sitting on the throne, blessing with the raised right hand and in his left holding book of gospels decorated with gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triple pellets around the throne. Moneyer marks: R - O to the sides.

Reference: Jov 11 13, J 11 23, Lj VII 11, D 54 1.

Comment: Extremely rare imperial helmet type of the first Serbian emperor Stefan Uros IV Dusan Nemanjic.

This type is one of few types and only helmet type without reference to emperors titular name Stefan. Description around simply states money of the emperor or emperors money.

Description MONITAS INPERATO has reversed S at the end of the reference to the money and decorative R designed in two parts inside imperial title. Middle “pillow” helmet decoration doesn’t appear square like on all known helmet types, but it looks like half circle or half moon, hollow in the middle and still decorated with 4 triple dotted pellets around. Decoration above “pillow” is represented with a big circle and 7 pellets inside, 1 in the middle and 6 around. Above it are 3 feathers.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "helmet" type. 19mm, 0.64g.

Obverse: Ornamented helmet pointing left. Latin legend: INPER SEFA N MONITA (EMPEROR STEFAN MONEY).

Reverse: Christ enthroned with both hands raised, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems but middle one looks like a small circle. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triple pellets around the throne. Siglas S T to the sides.

Reference: J 11-22, Jov 11-15, LJ (VII-12), I 6.12, D 56 36-41.

Comment: Rarest variant with the mention of kings money on the left side and a helmet combination.

Only 14 registered examples and 9 with counter-mark.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "helmet" type.

Obverse: Ornamented helmet pointing left. Latin legend: INPER SEFA N MONITA (EMPEROR STEFAN MONEY).

Reference: J 11-22, Jov 11-15, LJ (VII-12), I 6.12, D 56 36-41.

Comment: Rarest variant with the mention of kings money on the left side and a helmet combination.

Only 14 registered examples and 9 with counter-mark.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "helmet" type. 17mm, 1g.

Obverse: Ornamented helmet pointing left. Latin legend: INPER SEFA N MONITA (EMPEROR STEFAN MONEY).

Reference: J 11-22, Jov 11-15, LJ (VII-12), I 6.12, D 56 36-41.

Comment: Rarest variant with the mention of kings money on the left side and a helmet combination.

Only 14 registered examples and 9 with counter-mark.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355))

Silver "helmet" type. 17mm, 1g.

Obvеrse: Ornamented helmet facing left. Latin legend: +STEPAN INPERATO (STEFAN EMPEROR) around. Squares and dotted line on the face of the helmet.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems, sigla S - P. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: J 11.12.3, Jov 11-21.

Comment: Rare example with lovely natural patina and color.

2 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "triple cross" type. 19mm, 1.061g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly long patriarchal triple cross. Both are holding small cross tipped scepter. Latin legend: STF • IPA • • EL • IPAT x (STEFAN EMPEROR JELENA EMPRESS).

Reverse: Christ standing in glory, holding book of gospels decorated with 4 gems, blessing with the raised right hand. 4 stars on the left and 5 starts on the right side. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Large sigla L on the left side and δ (Greek delta) or G on the right side. 2 triple pellets under siglas.

Reference: Jov 11 25.3, J 11 42, Lj VIII-2.

Comment: Extremely rare example of imperial couple. Very well preserved and detailed with amazing patina. Triple cross is very rare and there are very few around and very hard to find.

Only 5 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "triple cross" type. 20mm, 1.245g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly long patriarchal triple cross. Both are holding large cross tipped scepter. Latin legend: STFA IPA • • ELA IPT x (STEFAN EMPEROR JELENA EMPRESS). Single dot above emperors head.

Reverse: Christ standing in glory, holding book of gospels decorated with 4 gems, blessing with the raised right hand. 4 stars on the left and 5 starts on the right side. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Large sigla L on the left side and A on the right side. 4 single dots above and under siglas.

Reference: Jov 11 25.2, J 11 38, Lj VII-24.

Comment: Extremely rare example of imperial couple. Very well preserved and detailed with amazing patina. Triple cross is very rare and there are very few around and very hard to find. This example has imperial couple holding individual scepter tipped with bigger more decorative cross.

Only 1 registered example.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" dinar. 21mm, 1.246g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly long patriarchal double cross and king is holding short scepter. Latin legend: STPAS M PERAT (STEFANVS IMPERATOR (STEFAN EMPEROR)). 2 triple dotted pellets after kings name and the title.

Reverse: Christ in glory (mandorla), triple dotted pellets around, 1 on the left side and 3 on the right side. Holding book of gospels decorated with gems, blessing with the raised right hand. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Sigla T on the left side.

Reference: J 11 24.3.

Comment: Queen is wearing big earrings. Both royal attires look very decorative. Both S letters on kings name are tilted upwards. Jesus is standing no throne visible.

Only 2 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" dinar. 20mm, 0.994g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly long patriarchal double cross and king is holding short scepter. Latin legend: STIA M PER S (STEFANVS IMPERATOR (STEFAN EMPEROR)). 2 triple dotted pellets after kings name and the title.

Reference: J 11 24.3.

Comment: Queen is wearing big earrings. Both royal attires look very decorative. S letters on kings name are not tilted upwards like example above. Jesus is standing no throne visible.

Only 2 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" dinar. 20mm, 0.697g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly long patriarchal double cross and king is holding short scepter. Latin legend: IPOR STA ELIA IPΛE (INPERATOR STEFANVS ELIANA INPERATRICAE (EMPEROR STEFAN AND EMPRESS ELENA)). 2 triple dotted pellets after kings name and the title.

Reverse: Christ in glory (mandorla), triple dotted pellets around, 1 on the left side and 3 on the right side. Holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems, blessing with the raised right hand. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Sigla G on the left side and Greek delta on the right side.

Reference: J 11 39.

Comment: Very nice example with lovely faces of the king and Jesus. Queen is not wearing any earrings. Both royal attires look very decorative. S letters on kings name are not tilted upwards like example above. Jesus is standing in very interesting and decorative attire, no throne visible.

Only 2 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" dinar. 19mm, 0.916g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly long patriarchal double cross and king is holding short 3 leaves tip scepter. Latin legend: STPKSM IPERAT (STEFANVS INPERATOR (STEFAN EMPEROR)). Sigla T - P at the bottom.

Reverse: Christ in glory (mandorla), stars around, holding book of gospels decorated with 4 gems, blessing with the raised right hand. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Sigla T on the left side.

Reference: Jov 11-40, J 11 20.3, D 51/5 16.

Comment: Only 2 registered examples and 1 counter-marked.

According to Gregoras, Dušan was negotiating a potential alliance with Orhan, which would have involved marrying off his daughter to Orhan himself or one of Orhan's sons in 1351. However, these negotiations broke down after the Serbian emissaries were attacked by Nikephoros Orsini - the marriage proposal was withdrawn and Serbia and the Ottoman Empire resumed hostilities. Theodora most likely died between 1352-1354.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "cross" type. 17mm, 1.23g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Stefan Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly long patriarchal single cross. Latin legend: ELENA STEF IMPERATOR (ELENA AND EMPEROR STEFAN). King is wearing round crown and queen pointy crown, both holding their own scepter.

Reverse: Christ standing in glory (mandorla), blessing with the raised right hand, holding book of gospels decorated with 4 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Siglas B with 6 zeros on the left side and AI with 8 zeros on the right side. 3 dots under each sigla on both sides.

Reference: Jov 11-28.4, J 11-33.4, D 47-32, LJ IV/C, M XI/3, SH VI 193 T I pic 3.

Comment: Very rare. Nice condition and patina, counter-marked with very unusual zeros around Jesus instead of dots. Only 3 registered examples and 1 counter-marked.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" coin. 16mm, 0.7g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly long patriarchal double cross and and king is holding short 3 leaves tip cruciform scepter. Latin legend: STKSIMO PERAT (STEFANVS IMPERATOR (STEFAN EMPEROR)). Sigla R at the bottom.

Reverse: Christ standing in glory (mandorla), blessing with the raised right hand, stars around, holding book of gospels . Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Sigla C on the left side and a triple dotted mark.

Reference: J 11 20.2, I 6.18, D 51/5 15.

Comment: Only 14 registered examples including 5 smaller in diameter plus 3 counter-marked.

By his first wife, Helena of Bulgaria, Emperor Dušan had at least one child Stefan Uroš V who succeeded his father as Emperor 1355-1371. According to contemporary Byzantine historian Nicephorus Gregoras, Dušan also had a daughter: Theodora.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" type. 19mm, 1.109g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, not holding jointly patriarchal double cross that stands between them but are holding a triple dot tipped scepter each. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (STEFAN CZAR) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems, pellet or small o below left elbow. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triple pellets around the throne and siglas R V to sides.

Reference: Jov 11-61.

Comment: Unusual queen Jelena crown with what appears to be a kind of sign or inscription on the front of it. Both king and queen seams to wear same attire with belts and decorations across and down the middle of it, holding both hands inside and smiling. Very well preserved with lovely patina.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" type. 20mm, 1.031g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly patriarchal double cross and cross-tipped scepter each. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (STEFAN CZAR) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems in his left hand and blessing with his right hand. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Siglas N and δ (Greek delta) to the sides. 4 triple pellets around the throne. Large O under left elbow.

Reference: J 11 11, Jov 11-45, I 6.21, Lj VIII 14.

Comment: Dusan with popular round crown and Jelena with different pointy crown. Both scepters appear to be the same size. Very well preserved and highly detailed example.

76 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" type. 19mm, 1.181g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly patriarchal double cross and cross-tipped scepter each. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (STEFAN CZAR) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems in his left hand and blessing with his right hand. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Siglas R and V to the sides. 4 triple pellets around the throne. Large O under left elbow.

Reference: Jov 12 28.1.

Comment: Dusan popular round crown is not visible and Jelena is wearing pointy crown. Both scepters appear to be the same size. X at the bottom of the double cross. Both Cs on IC XC are reversed. Very well preserved and highly detailed example.

18 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" type. 19mm, 1.233g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly patriarchal double cross and cross-tipped scepter each. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (STEFAN CZAR) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems in his left hand and blessing with his right hand. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Large plants one on each side. 4 triple pellets around the throne. Large O under left elbow.

Reference: D 72/2 145-147.

Comment: Dusan with popular round crown and Jelena with different pointy crown. Both scepters appear to be the same size. Very well preserved and highly detailed example.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" type. 19mm, 1.2g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly patriarchal double cross, and cross-tipped scepter each. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (STEFAN CZAR) to sides. Star on the bottom of the cross.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels in his left hand and blessing with his right hand. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triple pellets around the throne. Small o under left elbow.

Reference: Jov 11-61.

Comment: Imperial couple Dusan i Jelena but empress has different crown from previous example.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" type. 19mm, 1.1g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly patriarchal double cross, and cross-tipped scepter each. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (STEFAN CZAR) to sides.

Reference: Jov 11-61, D (72).

Comment: Dusan with popular well depicted round crown and Jelena with different pointy crown. Both scepters appear to be the same size. Well preserved and detailed example.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" type. 20mm, 1.130g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly patriarchal double cross, and cross-tipped scepter each. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (STEFAN CZAR) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems, pellet below elbow. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Siglas N and δ (Greek delta) to the sides. 4 triple pellets around the throne. Small o under left elbow.

Reference: Jov 11-61, D (72).

Comment: Both sides are double struck but still well preserved and detailed example.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" type. 20mm, 1.174g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly patriarchal double cross and triple pellet tipped scepter each. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (STEFAN CZAR) to sides. Large T moneyer mark next to emperor.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems in his left hand and blessing with his right hand. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Siglas triple dotted pellet (⛬) on the left and T to the right side. 4 triple pellets around the throne. 2 large Os within the throne, 1 on each side.

Reference: Jov 11 47, J 12 28.4, Lj VIII 16.

Comment: Dusan with popular but different bigger round crown and Jelena with her pointy crown. Both scepters appear to be the same size. Jesus halo is decorative with 3 dots within it. X is large and very interesting. Very well preserved and highly detailed example.

20 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" type. 20mm, 1.262g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly patriarchal double cross and triple pellet tipped scepter each. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (STEFAN CZAR) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems in his left hand and blessing with his right hand. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Siglas T on the left and triple dotted pellet (⛬) on the right side. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: Jov 11 47, J 12 28.4, Lj VIII 16.

Comment: Dusan with popular but different bigger round crown and Jelena with her pointy crown. Both scepters appear to be the same size. There is no large T moneyer mark next to emperor and no 2 large O`s within the throne, 1 on each side like example above. Jesus halo is decorative but not with 3 dots within it. Triple dotted pellet and T siglas are reversed. X is large and very interesting. Very well preserved and highly detailed example.

20 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" type. 20mm, 0.944g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly patriarchal double cross and triple pellet tipped scepter each. Serbian legend: Сb ZP (STEFAN CZAR) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems in his left hand and blessing with his right hand. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Siglas T on the left and triple dotted pellet on the right side. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: Jov 11 47, J 12 28.4, Lj VIII 16.

Comment: Same as an example above #DUS88 but letter Ф is missing. It reads Сb instead of СФb.

20 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" type. 19mm, 1.189g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly patriarchal double cross and triple pellet tipped scepter each. Serbian legend: СФ ZP (STEFAN CZAR) to sides.

Reference: Compare to Jov 11 47, J 12 28.4, Lj VIII 16.

Comment: Dusan with popular but different bigger round crown and Jelena with her pointy crown. Both scepters appear to be the same size. Jesus head and body looks much bigger then imperial couple. Very well preserved and highly detailed example.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" type. 17mm, 1.1g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly long patriarchal double cross and short cruciform scepter each. Latin legend: IPOR STFA ELIA IPΛE (INPERATOR STEFANVS ELIANA INPERATRICAE (EMPEROR STEFAN AND EMPRESS ELENA)).

Reverse: Christ standing in glory (mandorla), blessing with the raised right hand, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above.

Reference: J 1121.1, Jov 11-36, I (6.19).

Comment: Lovely condition and patina. There are 21 registered example. 33 counter-marked and 1 copper forgery.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" type. 19mm, 0.9g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly long patriarchal double cross. Latin legend: IPOR STFA ELIA IPΛE (INPERATOR STEFANVS ELIANA INPERATRICAE (EMPEROR STEFAN AND EMPRESS ELENA)).

Reference: J 11 21.2, Jov 11-35, LJ VII-23, D 52 23.

Comment: King and Queen have no individual scepters. Lovely condition and patina with clearly visible queens name.. There are 8 registered example and 8 counter-marked.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "cross" type. 20mm, 0.9g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly long patriarchal cross and short cruciform scepter each. Latin legend: STEFANVS IP OR ELENA IPΛT (STEFANVS INPERATOR ELIANA INPERATRICAE (EMPEROR STEFAN AND EMPRESS ELENA)). Stefan wears unusually flat low crown. Sigla П at the bottom of the cross.

Reverse: Christ standing in glory (mandorla), blessing with the raised right hand, holding book of gospels, 4 stars on the left and 5 on the right around. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above.

Reference: J 11.25.1, Jov (11-34), Lj (VII-22)

Comment: Not great condition but still very hard to find, very rare coin. There are only 2 registered examples and 3 counter-marked examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" type, Rudnik mint. 20mm, 1.352g.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, holding sword over his lap. Latin legend: REX RASIE ST IP ROMA (King of Rascia [Serbia], Stefan Emperor of the Romaion [Byzantines - Romans]).

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 4 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Sigla R - V to sides. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: J 37, Jov 11-7.1, Lj VII-17.

Comment: Early imperial type with lovely patina, clipped. Only type with the name of the state RASIE (RASKA).

Only 25 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" type, Rudnik mint. 17mm, 0.7g.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, holding sword over his lap. Latin legend: REX RASIE ST IP ROMA (King of Rascia [Serbia], Stefan Emperor of the Romaion [Byzantines - Romans]).

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding Book of Gospels. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Sigla R - V to sides. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: J 37, Jov 11-7.1, Lj VII-17.

Comment: Early imperial type with lovely patina, clipped. Only type with the name of the state RASIE (RASKA).

Only 25 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" type, Rudnik mint.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, holding sword over his lap. Latin legend: REX RASIE ST IP ROMA (King of Rascia [Serbia], Stefan Emperor of the Romaion [Byzantines - Romans]).

Reference: J 37, Jov 11-7.1, Lj VII-17.

Comment: Early imperial type with lovely patina, clipped. R on reverse appear double struck. 2 countermarks. Only type with the name of the state RASIE (RASKA).

Only 25 registered examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" dinar, Rudnik mint. 17mm, 0.8g.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, holding sword over his lap. Latin legend: REX RASIE ST IP ROMA (King of Rascia [Serbia], Stefan Emperor of the Romaion [Byzantines - Romans]).

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 4 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Sigla R - V to the sides. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: J 37, Jov 11-7.1, Lj VII-17.

Comment: Early imperial type with 2 counter-marks one on each side.

Only 17 registered counter-marked examples.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" dinar, Rudnik mint. 17mm, 1.3g.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, holding sword over his lap. Latin legend: +REX RIA ST IP ROIMA (King of Raska Stefan Emperor of Romans).

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 4 gems. Greek letters: IX XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Round counter-mark. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: J 37, Jov 11-9, LJ (VII-16,18), I (6.8.1.b).

Comment: Early imperial type - King depicted with a more rounded crown. Instead of IC XC we have IX XC but X looks like +. + before REX title looks identical in size and shape to the two + letters on the reverse.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" dinar. 19mm, 1.251g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena enthroned, each with free hand on chest, jointly holding patriarchal double cross. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. No usual IC XC. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: Jov 11-49, D (70).

Comment: Lovely natural patina and toning. Double struck so it appears as if king and queen are holding double cross each.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" dinar. 18mm, 1g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena enthroned, each with free hand on chest, jointly holding patriarchal double cross. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. No usual IC XC. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: Jov 11-49, D (70).

Comment: Dusan has typical round crown where Jelena seam to have less pointed crown then above no22 coin of a different type. Lovely lovely natural dark patina and toning.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" dinar. 17mm, 1.3g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena enthroned, each with free hand on chest, jointly holding patriarchal double cross. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. No usual IC XC. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: Jov 11-49, D (70).

Comment: Dusan has typical round crown where Jelena seam to have less pointed crown then above no22 coin of a different type. Lovely lovely natural dark patina and toning. Small fading on the side.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" dinar. 17mm, 0.9g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena enthroned, each with free hand on chest, jointly holding patriarchal double cross. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. No usual IC XC. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: Jov 11-49, D (70).

Comment: Dusan has typical round crown where Jelena seam to have less pointed crown then above no22 coin of a different type. Lovely lovely natural dark patina and toning. Small fading on the side. Cliped.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "lily" dinar. 15mm, 0.5g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena enthroned, each holding cross-tipped sceptre and jointly lily-tipped banner. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Siglas: small spotted cow with large horns on the left side and a single lily on the right side. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: Jov 11-66.

Comment: Dušan conquered a large part of southeast Europe, becoming one of the most powerful monarchs of the era. King and Queen depicted of equal size and importance.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" coin. 1.3g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena enthroned, each with free hand on chest, jointly holding patriarchal cross. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems.

Reference: Jov 11-49, D (70)

Comment: Dusan enacted the constitution of the Serbian Empire, known as Dušan's Code, perhaps the most important literary work of medieval Serbia.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" coin. 1.3g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena enthroned, each with free hand on chest, jointly holding patriarchal cross. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems.

Reference: Jov 11-49, D (70)

Comment: Some historians consider that the goal of Emperor Dušan was to establish a new, Serbian-Greek Empire, replacing the Byzantine Empire. Ćirković considered his initial ideology as that of the previous Bulgarian emperors, who had envisioned co-rulership. However, starting in 1347, relations with John VI Kantakouzenos worsened, Dušan allied himself with rival John V Palaiologos.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "scepter" coin. 16mm, 0.6g.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned, holding scepter, sigla: reversed crescent in the field on the right, 4 pellets on the left. Cyrillic legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to the sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: Jov 11-56.1, D (82).

Comment: Serbian military tactics consisted of wedge shaped heavy cavalry attacks with horse archers on the flanks. Many foreign mercenaries were in the Serbian army, mostly Germans as cavalry and Spaniards as infantry. He also had personal mercenary guards, mainly German knights. A German knight named Palman became the commander of the Serbian "Alemannic Guard" in 1331 upon crossing Serbia to Jerusalem; he became leader of all mercenaries in the Serbian Army. The main strength of the Serbian army was the armored knight feared for their ferocious charge and fighting skills. The Serbian expansion in the former territory of Byzantine Empire proceeded without a single major battle, its based on the blockade of Greek fortresses.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "scepter" coin. 16mm, 0.7g.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned, holding scepter, sigla ↄ (revers crescent or C) on the right side. Cyrillic legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to sides.

Reference: Jov 11-57, LJ (Description, 114/49).

Comment: Different throne from above with diagonal back. Jovanovic only has a drawing of this example.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "scepter" type. 16mm, 0.682g.

Obverse: Dusan sitting on the throne with a pointy back decorated with two large rings on each corner, holding decorative lily tipped scepter. Moneyer mark: ↄ (revers crescent or C) on the right side. Cyrillic legend: СФ ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to the sides. Visible pillow on the throne behind the emperor.

Reverse: Christ sitting on the throne, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. 4 triple pellets around the throne. 2 circles or O letters on each corner of the throne.

Reference: Jov 12 43.1, 12 43.2, J 11 56.1, J 11 56.1, LJ XV-1, D82 280-294.

Comment: Very nice half dinar example with lovely patina.

Obvious differences from the example above are the size of the emperor and the scepter emperor is holding. Even though both coins are 16mm the body and especially the head of the emperor is much larger on the coin above. It also has standard cross tipped scepter but this one has unusual scepter with what appears to be a decorative lily on the top of it.

Similarities are same throne, same reverse C moneyer mark, and same obverse with Jesus sitting on the throne. Jesus face appear very similar.

Unusual and rare feature of this type is emperor throne that covers the whole horizontal width of the coin.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" dinar, Rudnik mint, 1.3g

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, holding sword overhis lap. Latin legend: REX RIA ST IP ROIMA (King of Raska Stefan Emperor of Romans)

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Sigla ST on the left side.

Reference: J 37, Jov 11-9, LJ (VII-16,18), I (6.8.1.b)

Comment: Early imperial type - King depicted with a more rounded crown.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" dinar, Rudnik mint. 18mm, 0.99g.

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, holding sword over his lap. Latin legend: REX RIA ST IP ROIMA (King of Raska Stefan Emperor of Romans).

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Sigla G or Greek delta on the right side.

Reference: J 37, Jov 11-9, LJ (VII-16,18), I (6.8.1.b).

Comment: Early imperial type - emperor depicted with a more rounded crown. Clipped and counter-marked. Interestingly counter-marks only appear on Dusan coinage.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "sword" dinar, Rudnik mint, 1.5g

Obverse: Dusan enthroned facing, holding sword over his lap. Latin legend: REX RASIE ST IP ROMA (King of Rascia [Serbia], Stefan Emperor of the Romaion [Byzantines - Romans]).

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Sigla R - V.

Reference: J 37, Jov 11-7

Comment: Early imperial type - mainly full flan and not counter-marked. Accomplished rendition of Christ, in the best "Ragusan style" characteristic of certain Rudnik mint issues. King depicted with a more pointed crown.

Mediaeval Swords from Southeastern Europe.pdf
Size : 65613.857 Kb
Type : pdf

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "horseman" dinar, 1.4g

Obverse: Dusan on horseback facing, crowned and in loros, holding cruciform scepter. Serbian initials: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to sides.

Reverse: Bust of Christ facing, holding akakia, sigla N-O to the sides. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above.

Reference: Maric 1956 T XVI 11,12, J 52,53, Jov 11-27, LJ (VIII-22-24), I (6.11.1)

Comment: Contemporary writers described Dušan as unusually tall and strong, "the tallest man of his time", very handsome, quick intelligence, and strength, bearing "a kingly presence". According to the contemporary depictions, he had dark hair and brown eyes, in adult age he grew beard and longer hair. This coin is beautiful, popular and fresh design in the medieval Serbian series.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "horseman" dinar, 1.1g

Obverse: Dusan on horseback facing, crowned and in loros, holding cruciform scepter. Serbian initials: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to sides, flowers on the bottom.

Reverse: Bust of Christ facing, holding akakia. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above.

Reference: Jov 11-28

Comment: Extremely rare and fresh design in the medieval Serbian series. Only Jovanovic had and featured this example with flowers. Next to example featured in his book this is only other known example.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "double cross" coin. 17mm, 0.8g.

Obverse: Imperial couple Dusan and Jelena standing, holding jointly patriarchal double cross, and cross-tipped scepter each. Serbian legend: СФb ZP (SF - ZR (STEFAN CZAR)) to sides.

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. Pellet or small o below left elbow. 4 triple pellets around the throne.

Reference: Jov 11-61.

Comment: Dušan was the most powerful Serbian ruler in the Middle Age and remains a folk hero to Serbs. According to Steven Runciman, he was "perhaps the most powerful ruler in Europe" during the 14th century. His state was a rival to the regional powers of Byzantium and Hungary, and it encompassed a large territory, which would also be his empire's greatest weakness. By nature a soldier and a conqueror, Dušan also proved to be very able but nonetheless feared ruler. His empire however, slowly crumbled at the hands of his son, as regional aristocrats distanced from the central rule.

Emperor Stefan Dusan (1346-1355)

Silver "helmet" dinar, 1.3g

Obvеrse: Ornamented helmet. Latin legend: INPERATOR STEFANVS (EMPEROR STEFAN) around,

Reverse: Christ enthroned, holding book of gospels decorated with 5 gems. Greek letters: IC XC (In Greek: Ιησούς Χριστός - Jesus Christ) above. sigla П - O.

Reference: Jov 11-21

Comment: He was first born son of King Stefan Decanski and Theodora, daughter of Bulgarian Tsar Smilac. His early life was spent in Constantinople, where as a youngster he spent around seven years (1314 to 1320). There he learned Greek, comprehended Greek life and culture and got clear view of inner value of Greek empire. He himself was more soldier then diplomat, as young man he excelled in two battles, defeating Bosnian ban Stefan II Kotromanic in 1329 and in 1330 Bulgarian Tsar Mihailo. He overthrew his father and then crowned himself as king on September 8, 1331. In 1332 he married Jelena, sister of Bulgarian Tsar Aleksandar, a woman of strong will, who had large influence on him and born him son Uros and one daughter. Dusan was the only real Tsar of Serbia, creating the Serbian Empire. Under his rule Serbia reached it territorial peak and was one of the largest states in Europe.

Serbian medieval coins

Српски средњовековни новац

Detail of the fresco "Nemanjic Family Tree" from the Serbian orthodox monastery Visoki Decani, Kosovo and Metohija, Republic of Serbia, 14th century.