Katalog
| Emittent | Vandal Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Jahr | 440-490 |
| Typ | Standard circulation coin |
| Nennwert | 1 Nummus = 1/10 Denarius (0.1) |
| Währung | Denarius (440-534) |
| Material | Bronze |
| Gewicht | 0.47 g |
| Durchmesser | 10 mm |
| Dicke | |
| Form | Round (irregular) |
| Prägetechnik | Hammered |
| Ausrichtung | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Stempelschneider | |
| Im Umlauf bis | |
| Referenz(en) | BMC Vandal#68 |
| Aversbeschreibung | Pearl-diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust facing right. |
|---|---|
| Aversschrift | |
| Averslegende | |
| Reversbeschreibung | Palm tree with multiple fruits on either side. |
| Reversschrift | |
| Reverslegende | |
| Rand | |
| Prägestätte | |
| Auflage |
ND (440-490) - Three fruits on either side. - ND (440-490) - Two fruits on either side. - |
| Numisquare-ID | 4794476030 |
| Zusätzliche Informationen |
Historical Context: This nummus originates from the nascent Vandal Kingdom in North Africa, specifically Carthage, following its capture by Gaiseric in 439 CE. Issued between 440-490 CE, it marks the period of Vandal consolidation and their establishment as a formidable Mediterranean power. These small bronzes signify the Vandalic assertion of monetary sovereignty, adapting the late Roman nummus denomination for local commerce within their new kingdom, reflecting a pragmatic continuity of economic structures.
Artistry: The engraver of this piece remains anonymous, typical of Vandalic issues which often display varied stylistic competency. The design, featuring a palm tree, draws upon a deeply rooted Carthaginian iconographic tradition, symbolizing prosperity and local identity. This choice reflects a strategic appropriation of existing local symbolism by the Vandal rulers. Stylistically, the coin aligns with a late Roman provincial or early "barbaric" school, characterized by highly stylized, simplified forms, yet retaining recognizable elements.
Technical/Grading: With a diminutive diameter of 10mm and a weight of 0.47 grams, this bronze nummus presents significant challenges for striking quality. High-points for the palm tree design typically include the central trunk and the tips of the fronds. Vandalic bronze coinage is frequently characterized by irregular flans, off-center strikes, and weak impressions, often obscuring full design details or legends. Collectors should anticipate variable strike quality, with well-centered examples being scarcer.