Solidus - Anthemius SALVS REI PVBLICAE, Rome
| Issuer | Western Roman Empire |
|---|---|
| Year | 467-472 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Solidus |
| Currency | Solidus |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 4.50 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC X#2831, OCRE#ric.10.anth_w.2831 |
| Obverse description | Bust of Anthemius, helmeted, pearl-diademed, draped, cuirassed, facing front, holding spear in right hand behind head and shield decorated with cross behind left shoulder. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | D N ANTHE-MIVS P F AVG |
| Reverse description | Anthemius and Leo I, draped, cuirassed, standing front, each holding spear in outer hand and supporting a globe surmounted by a cross between them, mintmark in exergue. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | SALVS R-EI P-VBLICAE COMOB |
| Edge | |
| Mint |
COMOB Rome (ancient), Italy (?-476) |
| Mintage |
ND (467-472) COMOB - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1640431260 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This solidus, issued 467-472 AD, represents the turbulent reign of Anthemius, one of the last Western Roman Emperors. Appointed by Eastern Emperor Leo I, Anthemius sought to stabilize the crumbling West amidst barbarian threats and internal strife. His rule in Rome was a desperate, ultimately failed, attempt to reassert imperial authority. The legend "SALVS REI PVBLICAE" (Safety of the Republic) ironically underscores the era's profound instability and the Western Empire's terminal decline.
Artistry: The anonymous engravers of this solidus worked within the late Roman Imperial stylistic school, characterized by a move from classical naturalism towards more abstract, hieratic representation. The obverse features a diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust of Anthemius, rendered with large eyes and frontal emphasis, conveying imperial majesty. The reverse often depicts two standing emperors, symbolizing desired unity and strength, a poignant visual plea for the "Safety of the Republic" in an era of fragmentation.
Technical/Grading: Struck in gold to standard 4.50g and 22mm, this Rome mint solidus typically exhibits a good strike, though minor flan irregularities are not uncommon. Key high-points for wear or strike weakness include the emperor's diadem, nose, and chin on the obverse, and the heads and shoulders of the standing figures on the reverse. Excellent examples display full legends and clear details, indicative of careful production despite the precarious climate. Centering can vary, impacting legend completeness and visual balance.