1 Solidus - Witigis / In the name of Justinian I, 527-565 Star to the right

発行体 Ostrogothic Kingdom
年号 536-540
種類 Standard circulation coin
額面 1 Solidus = 3 Tremissis
通貨 Tremissis (490-553)
材質 Gold
重量 4.49 g
直径 21 mm
厚さ
形状 Round (irregular)
製造技法 Hammered
向き
彫刻師
流通終了年
参考文献 MEC I#cf. 122
表面の説明 Pearl-diademed, helmeted, and cuirassed bust holding spear over shoulder, all surrounded by legend.
表面の文字体系 Latin
表面の銘文 D N IVSTINIL - NV S PP AVC
(Translation: Dominus Noster Justinian Perpetuus Augustus Our Lord, Justinian, perpetual August)
裏面の説明 Winged Victory facing left while holding cross, all with star to the left and surrounded by legend.
裏面の文字体系 Latin
裏面の銘文 VICTORI - A AVCCC A COMOP
(Translation: Victoria Augustus / Constantinople Victory of the August / Costantinople)
Smooth.
鋳造所
鋳造数 ND (536-540) A - -
Numisquare ID 1759664810
追加情報

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.

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