Catalog
| Issuer | Suebi Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Year | 448-456 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Siliqua (1/8) |
| Currency | Tremissis |
| Composition | Silver (.965) |
| Weight | 1.4 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) |
| Obverse description | Pearl-diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust facing right and surrounded by legend |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
D N HONORIVS P F AVG (Translation: Dominus Noster Honorius Pius Felix Augustus Our Lord, Honorius, the dutiful and wise Augustus) |
| Reverse description | Cross within wreaths around |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
IVSSV RICHIARI REGES B R (Translation: Iussu Rechiar Regis Bracara By order of King Rechiar Braga) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (448-456) BR - - |
| Numisquare ID | 2065149890 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Siliqua, issued by King Rechiar of the Suebi Kingdom (448-456 AD), marks a pivotal moment in early medieval European numismatics. Rechiar was the first Germanic ruler to mint coinage explicitly in his own name, asserting full sovereignty over Roman Gallaecia and parts of Lusitania. His reign saw significant Suebic expansion and a direct challenge to Roman authority, making this coin a tangible symbol of the nascent post-Roman kingdoms in Hispania.
Artistry: The coin's artistry reflects a "barbarized" interpretation of late Roman imperial prototypes, likely executed by local Iberian artisans. While often imitating contemporary Roman siliquae, the design typically features a simplified, diademed bust on the obverse, sometimes retaining generic Roman features. The reverse frequently displays a Christian symbol, such as a Christogram or cross, or a victory figure, often with blundered or stylized legends. These stylistic choices underscore the transition to a distinctly Germanic, yet Roman-influenced, royal coinage.
Technical/Grading: Struck in high-purity silver (.965) at 1.4 grams and 18 millimeters, this siliqua exhibits characteristics typical of early Germanic issues. High-points for wear or strike often include the diadem and facial features on the obverse, and the central elements of the reverse motif. Technical strike quality can vary, frequently showing irregular flans, off-center strikes, and areas of weakness, particularly along the periphery, due to less refined minting techniques.