1/4 Siliqua In the name of Justinian I, With stars, curly hair

Historical Context: This 1/4 Siliqua, issued by the Lombard kingdom in Italy (568-690), is a numismatic echo of preceding Byzantine authority. Though minted decades after Emperor Justinian I's death (565), its legend and iconography retain his name. This pseudo-imperial coinage reflects the Lombards' initial reliance on established monetary systems following their invasion of Italy, signifying a period of political transition and the gradual assertion of their own identity.

Artistry: The coin's design, featuring a bust of Justinian I with distinctive curly hair and accompanying stars, falls within the "barbaric imitation" stylistic school. While emulating Byzantine prototypes, the anonymous Lombardic engraver's hand is evident in the simplified, often schematized imperial portrait. The "curly hair" is a notable stylistic interpretation, and the "stars" likely served as decorative fillers or rudimentary mint marks, typical of these provincial Germanic issues.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this 0.83 gram, 12 mm 1/4 Siliqua typically exhibits irregular flans, often off-center strikes, and variable strike pressure, leading to areas of weakness. High-points for wear include the prominent features of the emperor's bust—the nose, forehead, and "curly hair"—as well as any central reverse motifs. Its small size and light weight are characteristic of fractional silver denominations. References include BMC Vandal#4, MEC I#295, and MIB I#78.