Russia, Grand principality of Tver (Tver) AR Denga c. 1461-70 – Mikhail Borisovich (1461-1485)

0.54g. AU/AU. Beautiful mint state specimen with good relief details and fine luster. 

Obv.: Warrior to left, holding sword and globe / Rev.: Legend in Russian in four lines. 

HP II 7200C. 

Tver's silver coins are distinguished by their beauty and variety. Each coin is a miniature work of art with an expressive composition, featuring traditional themes such as warriors, horsemen, quadrupeds, birds, hunting scenes, and more. There are also classical themes like the ascent to the heavens of Alexander the Great, Samson's struggle with the lion, and Hercules driving away the Stymphalian birds. Additionally, there are fantastical depictions, such as a dragon with a fish tail, a manticore, and others. On Tver’s coins, one can also find one of the earliest depictions of a double-headed eagle, as well as a die cutter at work.

The inscriptions on the coins are equally diverse: in addition to the traditional titles and names of princes, there are also mentions of the minting location, biblical quotations, and the names of the minters. The vivid scenes, high-quality minting, and large-scale production have made Tver's coins highly popular among numismatists.