Catalogue
| Émetteur | Carnutes |
|---|---|
| Année | 100 BC - 52 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | |
| Devise | |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Poids | 2.76 g |
| Diamètre | 15.5 mm |
| Épaisseur | 2 mm |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | DT#2580, LT#6117 |
| Description de l’avers | Stylized head right, with triangular eye and parallel locks of hair; beaded circle around. |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | |
| Légende de l’avers | |
| Description du revers | Eagle standing right, wings outstretched, head turned right; rowel (circle with four perpendicular rays) placed between the granulation and the top of the right wing; in front, a chevron line; under the tail, a pointed segment. |
| Écriture du revers | |
| Légende du revers | |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (100 BC - 52 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 4018518120 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: This bronze coin was issued by the Carnutes, a prominent Celtic tribe around modern-day Orléans, from 100 BC to 52 BC. This era immediately preceded and overlapped with Julius Caesar's conquest of Gaul and the Gallic Wars. The Carnutes were a powerful political and religious center, initiating the pan-Gallic revolt in 52 BC. Issuing this small denomination bronze coinage underscores their economic sophistication and sovereign identity, facilitating daily commerce before Roman subjugation.
Artistry: The coin exemplifies the distinctive Celtic artistic tradition prevalent in Gaul. While engravers remain anonymous, the style reflects indigenous symbolism and highly stylized interpretations. The obverse likely features the eagle, a potent symbol of power or divinity, rendered with characteristic Celtic abstraction. The reverse prominently displays the wheel, a ubiquitous solar emblem representing the sun, eternity, and often associated with the god Taranis. This design powerfully communicated core Carnutian beliefs.
Technical/Grading: Measuring 15.5 mm and weighing 2.76 grams, this bronze issue represents a typical small module for daily transactions. Key high-points for evaluation include the clarity of the eagle's head and wing details, and the distinctness of the wheel's spokes and rim. Strike quality can vary; well-centered examples with full flan and minimal die wear are highly desirable. Corrosion, common for bronze, can obscure details, making well-preserved surfaces with clear devices particularly valuable.