© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Æ In the name of Valens
| Bronze | 7.48 g | 27 mm |
| Issuer | Uncertain Germanic tribes |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 375-425 |
| Currency | Solidus (circa 301-750) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 7.48 g |
| Diameter | 27 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#165707 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Person facing left while holding winged Victory in front and staff behind, all surrounded by legend.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
[...] - RCVVG[...]
[...]
Translation:
[Restitutor Rei-publicae]
[Restorer of the state]
Edge
Plain
Comment
Various weights have been recorded of this type from 5.88 grams to 8.95 grams; various diameters of this type have been recorded of this type from 26 millimetres to 27 millimetres.This type is said to have been struck from the late-4th to early-5th centuries.
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.
With there being so few coins struck in the name of Valens (364-378), it seems likely the tribe who minted this piece also minted the 1 siliqua piece that is struck in the name of the same ruler.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Valens, a Roman Emperor, despite being issued by a Germanic tribe. This highlights the cultural exchange and influence of the Roman Empire on the barbarian tribes during that time period.
