© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Æ In the name of Constantius II; Round boat; without star
| Bronze | 6.05 g | 23 mm |
| Issuer | Uncertain Germanic tribes |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 348-425 |
| Currency | Solidus (circa 301-750) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 6.05 g |
| Diameter | 23 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#153937 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Two people on a boat with staff in-between, all surrounded by legend.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
FELLTUVCC - IIASPPREI
·LC
Translation:
[Felicitas Temporum Reparatio]
[Happy times are restored]
Edge
Plain
Comment
This coin is said to be struck from the mid-4th to early-5th centuries. While the mintmarks on most of these types are of uncertain mints, the prototypes for those coins were either struck in Lugdunum/Lyon mint, with those two types both being first struck in 548. With that being said, that is the most-likely beginning date for this entire type of AE struck by an Uncertain Germanic Tribe.The denominations of bronze coins that are unknown to numismatists are referred to as Æ (AE), followed by the coin's diameter. The Æ part simply means the coin is made of a base alloy, and because the diameter of these coins is never exactly as intended, different numbers can appear after the Æ for the same type.
The exact lettering of the surrounding legend may vary; while some coins have legible legends, the legends of others may have been reduced to basically only lines.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of a round boat on one side, which was a common motif on coins issued by Germanic tribes during this period. The boat likely symbolized the tribe's maritime prowess and their ability to navigate and trade along the rivers and coastlines of Europe. Despite being issued by a relatively unknown tribe, this coin is still considered a valuable artifact and a window into the culture and traditions of ancient Germanic societies.
