1/2 Siliqua In the name of Anastasius I, Sirmium, large bust with SRW

Historical Context: This Gepid 1/2 Siliqua from Sirmium (491-518 CE) illuminates post-Roman power dynamics. Struck in Byzantine Emperor Anastasius I's name, it reflects the Gepid Kingdom's nominal acknowledgement of imperial suzerainty while asserting local authority through independent minting. Sirmium, a former Roman capital, became a crucial Gepid center. This silver piece signifies the economic integration of Germanic successor states within the broader late antique monetary system, essential for regional commerce after the Western Roman collapse.

Artistry: The "large bust" on this issue exemplifies the "barbarian imitation" stylistic school. Sirmium mint artisans rendered Anastasius I's imperial portrait, typically a diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust. This local interpretation often features a stylized, sometimes cruder, execution compared to official Byzantine issues, yet can display skill. No specific engraver is known. The prominent "SRW" mint mark is a defining epigraphic element, unequivocally identifying the Sirmium origin and adding a distinct local artistic signature.

Technical/Grading: For optimal grading, the clarity and completeness of Anastasius's "large bust" portrait are paramount, especially facial features, diadem, and drapery folds, often weakly struck. Legibility of the obverse legend (DN ANASTASIVS PP AVG) significantly enhances value. On the reverse, the distinctness of the "SRW" mint mark and any accompanying cross or monogram is crucial. Assess overall strike quality, centering, and flan irregularities, common for Gepid issues. Surface preservation, free from significant damage, heavily influences the final grade.