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

发行方 Ostrogothic Kingdom
年份 536-540
类型 Standard circulation coin
面值 1 Solidus = 3 Tremissis
货币 Tremissis (490-553)
材质 Gold
重量 4.49 g
直径 21 mm
厚度
形状 Round (irregular)
制作工艺 Hammered
方向
雕刻师
流通至
参考资料 MEC I#cf. 122
正面描述 Pearl-diademed, helmeted, and cuirassed bust holding spear over shoulder, all surrounded by legend.
正面文字 Latin
正面铭文 D N IVSTINIL - NV S PP AVC
(Translation: Dominus Noster Justinian Perpetuus Augustus Our Lord, Justinian, perpetual August)
背面描述 Winged Victory facing left while holding cross, all with star to the left and surrounded by legend.
背面文字 Latin
背面铭文 VICTORI - A AVCCC A COMOP
(Translation: Victoria Augustus / Constantinople Victory of the August / Costantinople)
边缘 Smooth.
铸币厂
铸造量 ND (536-540) A - -
Numisquare 编号 1759664810
附加信息

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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