¼ Siliqua (In the name of Anastasius I and Theoderic; Sirmium; horizontal S with backwards monogram) (518-540) front ¼ Siliqua (In the name of Anastasius I and Theoderic; Sirmium; horizontal S with backwards monogram) (518-540) back
¼ Siliqua (In the name of Anastasius I and Theoderic; Sirmium; horizontal S with backwards monogram) (518-540) photo
© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG

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

 
Silver 0.48 g 14.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Gepid Kingdom
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
518-540
Value
¼ Siliqua
Currency
Siliqua (491-567)
Composition
Silver
Weight
0.48 g
Diameter
14.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#150139
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Backwards monogram of Theoderic with cross above and surrounded by legend.

Script: Latin

Lettering: VHIVCOVV – NIINV

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 horizontal S with a backwards monogram, which is a distinctive feature of coins issued during the joint reign of Anastasius I and Theoderic. This coin is a rare example of a coin that was issued during this period and is highly sought after by collectors.