© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG
© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG
1 Solidus In the name of Leo I
| Gold | 4.36 g | 22 mm |
| Issuer | Uncertain Germanic tribes |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 457-474 |
| Value | 1 Solidus |
| Currency | Solidus (circa 301-750) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 4.36 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#153506 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Winged Victory facing left while holding cross, all surrounded by legend.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
VICTORI - A AVCCC Z
CONOB
Translation:
Victoria Augustus / Constantinople
Victory of the August / Costantinople
Edge
Plain
Comment
This is a seemingly unpublished type.With the solidus piece from the Uncertain Germanic Tribes struck in the name of Marcian (450-457) looking so similar, it is possible those two pieces were struck by the same tribe. Another support for that theory is that Leo I (457-474) was the heir of Marcian, so if the same tribe switched the ruler whose name they struck the coins is, it is likely these coins were minted with the lifetimes of those two rulers.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was minted during the reign of Leo I, who was the first emperor of the Byzantine Empire, also known as the Eastern Roman Empire. This coin was minted in the name of Leo I, indicating that it was issued by the imperial authorities in Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire. Despite being minted in the name of the emperor, the coin was actually produced by the Germanic tribes, which suggests that the Byzantine Empire had a strong influence on the currency and trade of the region. Additionally, the fact that the coin is made of gold suggests that it was a high-value coin, likely used for large transactions or as a store of value.
