The name Dracula probably conjures up images of bloodthirsty vampires and other creatures of the night. They are not all that popular in our society today. But back in the fifteenth century when Vlad III was born, many believed in these creatures and lived in great fear of them. It is this fear that tainted Vlad’s life and was responsible for his name becoming synonymous with evil acts. So how did Vlad III become so infamous and gain the name Vlad the Impaler?
Dracula – Not Just A Vampire
Vlad the Impaler, or simply Dracula as he is better known in Western Europe, is quite possibly one of the most well known individuals of all time. This is largely due to the legend that surrounds him and his atrocities. The image of this man has become synonymous with Dracula, vampires, and evil throughout the centuries, which further perpetuates his name through films and books. His life was full of controversy and intrigue. Although much of what is thought about him has been exaggerated over time, it still leaves us wondering who this person really was and if there was any truth behind all that we think we know about Vlad Tepes, son of Dracula II.
Early Life of Vlad The Impaler
He was born in Transylvania during the year 1431 and he spent his childhood being trained as a warrior. Dracula’s father joined an elite brotherhood called The Order of Dragon Hunters and was chosen by them as their leader. From this point forward they started using the name Dracula. Their goal was to protect Christian Europe against invading Ottomans. His father and older brother were eventually murdered by the Boyars and thus began Vlad’s life long mission to regain power. In 1448, he becomes ruler of Transylvania and Wallachia through murder and treachery. Some say the during his reign he has children, men and women tortured before they are impaled on wooden spikes outside his castle walls. He is then exiled and deposed over the years. In 1477 he is eventually killed in battle against the Ottomans.
Vlad the impaler is linked to a lot of myths that surround him. Many legends about Vlad have been created and spread around the world for centuries. His life story remains unknown as we do not have any reliable historical documents about his life. Most of what we know about Vlad today comes from stories written by historians who lived after him.
This clear box contains one silver denar from Hungary. This silver denar coin was struck during the imprisonment of Vlad III under Matthias Corvinus. The design of this coin was implemented by Matthias Corvinus in his territory. It features Mary, the patron saint of Hungary, and baby Jesus. The coin weighs from 0.5 g to 0.6 g and has a diameter that ranges from 15.5 mm to 16 mm. The box also comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.
