© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
42 Nummi Countermark; As of Domitian,
| Bronze | 10.42 g | 27 mm |
| Issuer | Ostrogothic Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 501-553 |
| Value | 42 Nummi = 1⁄12 Siliqua = 1⁄96 Tremissis |
| Currency | Tremissis (490-553) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 10.42 g |
| Diameter | 27 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Countermarked |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#166644 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Jupiter standing holding sceptre and pileus, all surrounded by legend.
Lettering:
IOVI CONSERVATORI
S - C
Translation:
Iovi Conservatori / Senatus Consulto
Jupiter the Protector / By Decree of the Senate
Edge
Plain
Comment
These countermarked coins came in two denominations: 42 Nummi and 83 Nummi. While their values are quite odd in comparison to other Ostrogothic coins, these coins were not intended to be used as general nummus pieces, but rather fractions of the Siliqua (1/12 and 1/6 of one, respectively). While these denominations in nummi are not perfectly divisible by the equivalent values in siliquae, these values are as close to the proper divisions as possible.The host coin for this piece is a Rome mint, 1 As struck under Domitian (81-96), and these were said to be countermarked in the early- to mid-6th century. With the Ostrogothic Kingdom falling in 553, that is the latest possible end-date.
Around 150 countermarked coins are known, with the vast majority being found in Italy. Because the host coins were minted hundreds of years before the countermarks were applied, it is suggested that a hoard of these host coins were found, which prompted some local mint in Ostrogothic Italy to start countermarking them.
ee C. Morrison, "The Re-use of Obsolete Coins" in Studies in Numismatic Method pp.95-111.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was issued during the reign of Domitian, who was the last emperor of the Flavian dynasty and ruled from 81 to 96 AD. Despite being a standard circulation coin, it features a unique countermark, which sets it apart from other coins of the same era. Additionally, the fact that it was made of bronze and weighs 10.42 grams suggests that it was a significant coin in terms of value and circulation.
