Catalog
| Issuer | Frankish Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Year | 595-612 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Tremissis (⅓) |
| Currency | Tremissis (476-670) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 1.28 g |
| Diameter | 12 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Belfort#– |
| Obverse description | Head left. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
+ TEDOBERTI RIX (Translation: Theudebert, king.) |
| Reverse description | Large letters AR. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
AR BRIVATE FT (Translation: Minted in Brioude.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (595-612) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1038085980 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Tremissis was issued under Theudebert II, King of Austrasia (595-612), a period marked by Merovingian dynastic conflicts. Despite political fragmentation, Theudebert maintained the royal prerogative of gold coinage. The Brioude mint, a significant regional center, underscores the king's assertion of sovereignty and the continued economic importance of gold currency, reflecting a decentralized yet active monetary system.
Artistry: The coin's artistry exemplifies the Merovingian stylistic school, characterized by a departure from classical naturalism towards abstract, simplified forms. Engravers were anonymous. The obverse typically presents a highly stylized, diademed bust of the ruler, often facing right, with rudimentary features. The reverse commonly features a cross potent on steps, a Christian symbol, frequently accompanied by a blundered or abbreviated mint signature, indicating Brioude.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a small 12 mm flan weighing 1.28 grams, this Tremissis showcases early medieval minting limitations. High-points for the obverse portrait include the diadem and nose; for the reverse cross, the center and arm terminals. Merovingian issues frequently display irregular flan shapes, off-center strikes, and weak pressure, resulting in incomplete legends and partial designs. The small diameter and crude dies contribute to the typical rough appearance, making well-centered, fully struck examples rare.