Tremissis - Moneyer Madelinus Dorestad mint

Issuer Madelinus
Year 585-675
Type Standard circulation coin
Value 1 Tremissis (⅓)
Currency Tremissis (476-670)
Composition Gold
Weight 1.25 g
Diameter 14 mm
Thickness
Shape Round (irregular)
Technique Hammered
Orientation Variable alignment ↺
Engraver(s)
In circulation to
Reference(s) Belfort#1760, MEC I#493, Prou Mer#1225, vdCh 7#7.2
Obverse description Diademed and draped bust right; five pellets on drapery.
Obverse script Latin
Obverse lettering DOREᔕTΛT FIT
(Translation: Minted in Dorestad.)
Reverse description Latin cross on base; six pellets below.
Reverse script Latin
Reverse lettering MAΔ•ELINVS M
(Translation: Moneyer Madelinus.)
Edge
Mint
Mintage ND (585-675) - -
Numisquare ID 6412007410
Additional information

Historical Context: This Tremissis, struck under moneyer Madelinus at Dorestad (585-675 CE), epitomizes the Merovingian period's decentralization in Francia. The named moneyer at a vital trade hub like Dorestad indicates local economic autonomy, not direct royal control. Such coinage reflects an evolving political landscape where regional entities gained minting rights, highlighting the fragmented nature of early medieval governance and the growing importance of local economies.

Artistry: Merovingian numismatic artistry, exemplified by this Tremissis, shifted from imperial prototypes to a distinctive, often abstract style. The obverse typically presents a highly stylized bust, frequently a crude imperial imitation, while the reverse commonly displays a cross, monogram, or symbolic device, usually with the moneyer's name and mint. Engraving quality varied, prioritizing symbolic representation over naturalistic depiction, reflecting early medieval artistic shifts.

Technical/Grading: This gold Tremissis, weighing 1.25 grams and 14 millimeters, conforms to standard specifications. High-points susceptible to wear include the obverse bust's highest relief areas (e.g., nose, diadem) and central reverse design elements. Merovingian strikes often exhibit irregular flans, off-center strikes, and variable die alignment, potentially causing incomplete legends or designs. A well-centered strike with full legends and sharp details is highly valued for this series.

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