1 Solidus In the name of Justin I, Lyon

Emittente Burgundian Kingdom
Anno 518-524
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valore 1 Solidus (3)
Valuta Tremissis (473-532)
Composizione Gold
Peso 4.41 g
Diametro 20 mm
Spessore
Forma Round (irregular)
Tecnica Hammered
Orientamento
Incisore/i
In circolazione fino al
Riferimento/i MEC I#340, Hunter#2, Belfort#5154
Descrizione del dritto Pearl-diademed, helmeted, and cuirassed bust holding spear over shoulder, all surrounded by legend.
Scrittura del dritto Latin
Legenda del dritto D N IVSTI - NVS PP AVC
(Translation: Dominus Noster Justin Perpetuus Augustus Our Lord, Justin, perpetual August)
Descrizione del rovescio Winged Victory facing left while holding cross with monogram in front and star behind, all surrounded by legend.
Scrittura del rovescio Latin
Legenda del rovescio VICTOR - I - A AVCCC IS CONOB
(Translation: Victoria Augustus / Constantinople Victory of the August / Constantinople)
Bordo Smooth.
Zecca
Tiratura ND (518-524) - -
ID Numisquare 7227799180
Informazioni aggiuntive

Historical Context: This Solidus, struck in Lyon by the Burgundian Kingdom between 518 and 524, exemplifies the complex political landscape of early 6th-century Gaul. Issued in the name of Eastern Roman Emperor Justin I (518-527), it reflects the Burgundian kings' strategic acknowledgement of imperial authority, even while asserting their own autonomy. This practice, common among Germanic successor kingdoms, legitimized their rule through association with the established Roman order, a crucial diplomatic gesture in a period of shifting power.

Artistry: The stylistic execution of this Burgundian Solidus is characteristic of Germanic imitations. While replicating imperial iconography, the dies, likely cut by local artisans, often exhibit a more stylized and somewhat crude rendition compared to official Byzantine issues. The obverse typically features a diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust of Justin I, facing right. The reverse displays Victory or an angel standing left, holding a long staff surmounted by a staurogram or cross. Legends are frequently blundered or abbreviated, reflecting local craftsmanship.

Technical/Grading: This gold Solidus, weighing 4.41 grams and measuring 20 mm, broadly adheres to the imperial standard, though variations are common. Typical strikes for these issues often present with irregular flans and are frequently off-center, impacting the completeness of legends and design elements. Key areas for assessing strike quality include the clarity of Justin I's facial features, the details of his diadem and drapery, and the definition of the reverse figure's wings and staff. Legibility of the often-garbled legends is a significant grading factor.

×