½ Siliqua (Sirmium; bust facing left) (518-567) front ½ Siliqua (Sirmium; bust facing left) (518-567) back
½ Siliqua (Sirmium; bust facing left) (518-567) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

½ Siliqua Sirmium; bust facing left

 
Silver 1.12 g 18 mm
Description
Issuer
Gepid Kingdom
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
518-567
Value
½ Siliqua
Currency
Siliqua (491-567)
Composition
Silver
Weight
1.12 g
Diameter
18 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#153921
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Legend between two horizontal lines surrounded by nonsensical legend.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
CCCVIAOIIISYIY
SIV

Edge

Plain

Comment

While this coin is said to be from an Uncertain Germanic Tribe, an uncertain mint, and being struck from the early-5th to early-8th centuries, this coin has enough similarities to the latest issue of 1/2 siliqua pieces from the Gepid Kingdom to place this coin under that tribe. If this coin was struck under the Gepid Kingdom, it would have been minted at Sirmium, and have a similar date-range to the other piece (518-567).

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique blend of Roman and barbarian influences in its design. The bust of the emperor facing left is a common feature in Roman coins, while the use of silver and the weight of 1.12g are characteristic of barbarian coins. This blend of styles reflects the cultural exchange and fusion that occurred during the Gepid Kingdom's period.