© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
½ Siliqua In the name of Arcadius
| Silver | 1.25 g | 17 mm |
| Issuer | Uncertain Germanic tribes |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 401-410 |
| Value | ½ Siliqua = 1⁄48 Solidus |
| Currency | Solidus (circa 301-750) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.25 g |
| Diameter | 17 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#153907 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Stacked legend within wreath and with lettering below.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
VOT
V
IINIT
X
LVC
Translation:
Votis Quinquennalibus Multis Decennalibus
Vows for the fifth anniversary and more for the tenth anniversary
Edge
Plain
Comment
This coin is imitating an issue from the Lugdunum/Lyon mint, and is said to have been struck in the early-5th century. The pictured example was found at the Gussage All Saints Hoard, which was probably hidden around 410, meaning that is the latest this type was probably struck.While the obverse is imitating a piece struck under Arcadius (395-408), the reverse is imitating a piece struck under Magnus Maximus (383-388).
With there being so few coins struck in the name of Arcadius (395-408), it seems likely the tribe who minted this piece also minted the 1 solidus piece that is struck in the name of the same ruler.
Interesting fact
The ½ Siliqua coin was part of a series of coins issued by the Uncertain Germanic tribes during the reign of Arcadius (401-410 AD). These coins were unique in that they were the first time that barbarian tribes had issued coins in the name of a Roman emperor, indicating a shift in power dynamics between the Roman Empire and the Germanic tribes.
