1 Solidus - Witigis / In the name of Justinian I, 527-565 Star to the right
| Issuer | Ostrogothic Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Year | 536-540 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Solidus = 3 Tremissis |
| Currency | Tremissis (490-553) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 4.49 g |
| Diameter | 21 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | MEC I#cf. 122 |
| Obverse description | Pearl-diademed, helmeted, and cuirassed bust holding spear over shoulder, all surrounded by legend. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
D N IVSTINIL - NV S PP AVC (Translation: Dominus Noster Justinian Perpetuus Augustus Our Lord, Justinian, perpetual August) |
| Reverse description | Winged Victory facing left while holding cross, all with star to the left and surrounded by legend. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
VICTORI - A AVCCC A COMOP (Translation: Victoria Augustus / Constantinople Victory of the August / Costantinople) |
| Edge | Smooth. |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (536-540) A - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1759664810 |
| Additional information |
×
![]()
Historical Context: This Solidus was issued by the Ostrogothic Kingdom under King Witigis (536-540) but bears the effigy of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I (527-565). This strategic choice maintained continuity with the Roman monetary system, legitimizing Ostrogothic rule in Italy during the tumultuous Gothic Wars. Witigis, facing Justinian's reconquest, used these coins as a complex political statement, asserting sovereignty while acknowledging imperial authority amidst intense geopolitical struggle.
Artistry: The design closely follows contemporary Byzantine prototypes, a hallmark of Ostrogothic coinage, yet often displays a distinct stylistic interpretation. The anonymous engraver's work reflects a late Roman/early Byzantine school, frequently more stylized than Constantinopolitan issues. The obverse features a helmeted, cuirassed bust of Justinian I. The reverse depicts a standing Victory (Angel) holding a long cross and globus cruciger, with a distinctive star to the right in the field, a crucial marker distinguishing this Ostrogothic issue from imperial Byzantine mintages.
Technical/Grading: Struck in gold, this Solidus adheres to the Roman weight standard of 4.49 grams and 21 millimeters, reflecting consistent metallurgical quality. Key high-points for wear include the emperor’s helmet and facial features, and the cross/globus cruciger. Ostrogothic issues often exhibit slightly irregular flans or minor off-centering, indicative of local minting practices. The reference MEC I#cf. 122 suggests a close affinity to, but potentially a subtle variant of, a recognized type, highlighting the numismatic nuances within this series.