Catalog
| Issuer | Suebi Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Year | 583-585 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Tremissis |
| Currency | Tremissis |
| Composition | Gold (.685) |
| Weight | 1.2 g |
| Diameter | 15 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 |
LEIOIA COTIS MVNITA (Translation: Coin of Iacotis from Leon) |
| Reverse description | Cross within wreaths around |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
IONIOϽ (Translation: Constantinopolis obryzum Pure gold from Constaninopolis) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (583-585) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 3880166480 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Tremissis, dated 583-585, originates from the Suebi Kingdom during its final, tumultuous years. It spans the reigns of Eboric and Andeca, immediately preceding the Visigothic conquest by Leovigild in 585. This period saw the Suebi maintaining a distinct monetary identity, largely through imitations of Byzantine issues. The unique legend 'LEIO IACOTIS MVNITA' likely reflects local authority or religious veneration, possibly St. James, in Gallaecia, highlighting the kingdom's cultural autonomy amidst political decline.
Artistry: Engravers of this period are anonymous, operating within a localized Visigothic-Suebic stylistic school. Their work is characterized by a significant departure from classical realism, favoring abstract or highly stylized renditions. The obverse typically features a simplified imperial or regal bust, often crude, while the reverse commonly displays a cross or Victory. The distinct 'LEIO IACOTIS MVNITA' legend, a local innovation, often appears in a somewhat irregular script, reflecting the provincial nature of its production.
Technical/Grading: This gold Tremissis, weighing 1.2 gg and measuring 15 mm, exhibits a gold purity of .685, typical of regional issues showing some debasement compared to purer Byzantine types. High-points for wear or strike often include the central elements of the bust (nose, diadem) and the cross on the reverse. Technical strike qualities frequently present challenges, with common occurrences of irregular flans, off-center strikes, and areas of weak impression, indicative of less sophisticated minting practices.