© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
1 Solidus In the name of Marcian
| Gold | 4.52 g | 22 mm |
| Issuer | Uncertain Germanic tribes |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 450-457 |
| Value | 1 Solidus |
| Currency | Solidus (circa 301-750) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 4.52 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#153505 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Winged Victory facing left while holding cross, all surrounded by legend.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
VICTORI - A AVCCC A
COIIVO
Translation:
Victoria Augustus / Constantinople
Victory of the August / Costantinople
Edge
Plain
Comment
This is an unpublished type that is said to be struck in the mid-5th century or later.The only published example of a solidus piece struck in the name of Marcian was found in Scandinavia; however, that coin's engraving is significantly different from this piece.
With the solidus piece from the Uncertain Germanic Tribes struck in the name of Leo I (457-474) looking so similar, it is possible those two pieces were struck by the same tribe. Another support for that theory is that Leo I was the heir of Marcian (450-457), 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 issued during the reign of Marcian, who was a Western Roman Emperor, but it was minted by the Uncertain Germanic tribes, indicating a level of cooperation or alliance between the two powers.
