1/2 Siliqua in the name of Zeno Milan mint
| Issuer | Italy, Kingdom of |
|---|---|
| Year | 476-493 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1/2 Siliqua (1⁄48) |
| Currency | Solidus (476-493) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.82 g |
| Diameter | 13 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC X#3618, Ulrich-Ban#187, MEC I#62 |
| Obverse description | Pearl-diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust facing right and surrounded by legend. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
D N ZENO PERP AVG (Translation: Our Lord, Zeno, perpetual August.) |
| Reverse description | Person standing while holding staff with foot on thick prow. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
M D (Translation: Milan.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (476-493) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1886665920 |
| Additional information |
×
![]()
Historical Context: This 1/2 Siliqua, struck in Milan between 476-493, is a critical numismatic testament to post-imperial Italy. Bearing the name of Eastern Roman Emperor Zeno, its issuance reflects the pragmatic policies of Odoacer, and later Theodoric, who established de facto rule. By maintaining the fiction of imperial authority through coinage, these barbarian kings legitimized their nascent "Kingdom of Italy," bridging the collapse of the Western Empire with the rise of Ostrogothic power.
Artistry: The coin's design, typical of late antique provincial mints, showcases a blend of lingering Roman tradition and emerging stylistic trends. While specific engravers remain anonymous, the artistic execution aligns with the late Roman-early Byzantine school, characterized by a move away from classical naturalism towards a more stylized, often frontal and schematic representation. The ob