¼ Siliqua (In the name of Anastasius I and Theoderic; Sirmium; horizontal S) (493-526) front ¼ Siliqua (In the name of Anastasius I and Theoderic; Sirmium; horizontal S) (493-526) back
¼ Siliqua (In the name of Anastasius I and Theoderic; Sirmium; horizontal S) (493-526) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

¼ Siliqua In the name of Anastasius I and Theoderic; Sirmium; horizontal S

 
Silver 0.76 g 15 mm
Description
Issuer
Gepid Kingdom
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
493-526
Value
¼ Siliqua
Currency
Siliqua (491-567)
Composition
Silver
Weight
0.76 g
Diameter
15 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#150152
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Monogram of Theoderic with cross above and surrounded by legend.

Script: Latin

Lettering: HIVIIVT - A POHAD

Translation:
Invicta Roma
Unconquered Rome

Edge

Plain

Comment

While the types struck in the name of Anastasius I (491-518) and Theoderic (475-526) were originally attributed to the Gepids, they were later proposed to be issues of the Ostrogoths, which became a widely-accepted theory. Even so, with the weights of these issues not matching the Ostrogothic weight standard set by Theoderic, and with the stylistic depictions matching Gepid issues struck in the name of other rulers, Metlich concluded that all these types are, in fact, issues of the Gepids, which many auction houses are in agreement with.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique blend of Roman and barbarian influences in its design. The coin's obverse (front) side features the Roman Emperor Anastasius I and the Gepid King Theoderic, while the reverse (back) side features a stylized depiction of a horse, which was a symbol of the Gepid people. This blending of cultures reflects the complex political and cultural dynamics of the time, when the Western Roman Empire was in decline and barbarian tribes like the Gepids were rising to power.