1 Tremissis With line above, M to the left

Historical Context: This Tremissis, struck by the City of Lucca between 700 and 750, emerges from the heart of the Lombard Kingdom in Italy. Lucca, a vital ducal seat, maintained significant economic and administrative autonomy, enabling it to issue its own coinage. This period represents the zenith of Lombard power before the Carolingian conquest, with gold tremisses underscoring the city's strategic importance and its role in regional commerce, continuing a monetary tradition inherited from late Roman and Byzantine practices under localized control.

Artistry: The design of this tremissis exemplifies the early medieval Lombardic stylistic school, characterized by its departure from classical realism towards a more abstract, symbolic representation. While specific engravers remain anonymous, the coin's aesthetic reflects a provincial imitation of Byzantine prototypes. The distinctive "line above" and "M to the left" likely denote highly stylized elements, possibly a cross or monogram, indicative of the simplified yet locally distinct iconography prevalent in Lombard coinage of the era.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 1.31 grams and measuring 17 millimeters, this gold tremissis typically exhibits characteristics common to early medieval minting. High points, such as the central elements of the stylized "M" or cross, are often susceptible to weakness of strike or wear. Irregular flans and off-center strikes are frequent, reflecting the less advanced minting technology of the period. Gold purity for tremisses was generally maintained, though surface preservation and strike quality can vary considerably, impacting overall grade.