Vladislaus I (1440–1444), The Knight King of Varna – Silver Denar (Rarer Mint!) Condition: VF (Very Fine) ​A beautiful medieval Hungarian silver denár from the reign of Vladislaus I (1440–1444). The special feature of this piece is that it bears a rarer mint mark, significantly increasing its numismatic value. A fantastic historical relic from the 15th century, preserved in a pleasing VF condition. Please examine the uploaded photos carefully! ​Historical Background (The Tragedy of Varna): Vladislaus I (also King Władysław III of Poland) ruled the Hungarian throne for only four short years. Despite his youth, he and John Hunyadi led the grand European crusade aimed at driving the Ottomans out of the Balkans. This small silver denár circulated in Hungarian markets and the hands of mercenaries exactly during those tense years of war preparation! However, the story met a dramatic end: on November 10, 1444, at the fateful Battle of Varna, the 20-year-old king recklessly charged Sultan Murad II's elite janissaries in hopes of securing a decisive victory. The charge failed, the young monarch died a hero's death, and the Sultan kept his severed head as a trophy. This coin is a rare memento of the tragic knight-king who gave his life on the battlefield!