Came across this neat little coin and thought I would pick it up. Looks to be a Hilderic coin with a somewhat close Justinian I monogram on the reverse. Interesting time in history.... Anyone have any thoughts?
I see "PP AVG" on the obverse? Which would probably make it Justinian on the obverse as well as the reverse if I'm right.
It's definitely an ae nummus type monogram of Justinian, probably (but not positively) from Ravenna. Note that you can easily find the letters in his name within the monogram: I-V-S-T-I-N-I-A-N-O Here's my example: It's a tough coin to find and a nice pick-up.
Nice coin @montanvs! While I purchased the coin below as "Vandal or Mauri in North Africa in the time of Justinian," I believe it to be a Hilderic coin. Could be wishful thinking, but I see HIL on the obverse. Hilderic and Gelimer, the last two Vandal rulers, struck small bronze coins inscribed with their names "on what may be called the independent Vandal money perhaps the only Christian emblems are the cross as a reverse type of the small bronze of Hilderic.(Wroth, xxv)" 523-530 AD North Africa, Hilderic AE 0.67 gm - 9 mm. Obv: HIL bust of Hilderic right, beardless, wearing diadem. . Border of dots. Rev: square cross with serifs, in wreath. , all within circular border Reference: Worth 9 (page 14 and plate ii #16)
l myself don't have an example of the Justinian monogram type to share here (among many other rare monograms I still don't have). Almost went for one in an auction last year, but instead I decided to save up money for my Sisebut tremissis.
How rare is this monogram for Justinian? And why? You are right I can't seem to find another example except what Brian posted above... Nice Hilderic coin btw! I see the HIL as well
