Rights Holder: Colchester and Ipswich Museum Service
CC License:
Our images can be used under a CC BY attribution licence (unless stated otherwise).
Unique ID: ESS-F60F94
Object type certainty: Probably
Workflow
status: Published
A silver gilded demi-gros of Margaret of Constantinople (Countess of Flanders and Hainault 1244-1278) minted at Valenciennes, that has be re-used as a brooch or dress accessory.
The obverse is worn and it is difficult to determine the design. There are soldered attachements in the form of a hook and small loop.
The reverse is gilded, with the inscription reading: MONATA [VAL]ENCENENSIS SIGNVM CVRCIS. There is a small cross patte in the centre with a pellet in each quarter. The inscription is unsual in this instance as 'MONATA VALENCENENCIS' is usually depicted on the obverse.
Dimensions: weight: 2.45g, diameter: 20.39mm thickness: 1.29, thickness (inc loop and hook): 4.61mm
Similar examples on the database include: LIN-1E3E92, WILT-983BC7, NMS-BEA416
Demi-gros of this type were introduced by Margaret of Constantinople in 1269. Medieval traditions included converting larger coins into accessories, and these coins became popular for use as dress accessories after the removal of Edward I's groats from currency around 1280 - 1283, with these continental issues, similar in size, being used instead.
Conclusion: In terms of age and as the object contains a minimum of 10% precious metal, it qualifies as Treasure under the stipulations of the Treasure Act 1996 -subject to Coroner's inquest
Subsequent action after recording: Submitted for consideration as Treasure
Treasure case tracking number: 2017T92
Broad period: MEDIEVAL
Period from: MEDIEVAL
Period to: POST MEDIEVAL
Date from: Circa AD 1269
Date to: Circa AD 1278
Quantity: 1
Thickness: 1.29 mm
Weight: 2.45 g
Diameter: 20.39 mm
This information is restricted for your access level.
Treasure case number: 2017T92
Primary material: Silver
Manufacture method: Struck or hammered
Completeness: Complete
Surface Treatment: Gilded
Author | Publication Year | Title | Publication Place | Publisher | Pages | Reference | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Grierson, P. | 1976 | Coins of Medieval Europe | Barrie and Jenkins | page 122, figure 278 |