The Gold Late Antique Coin Hoard from Abritus: Circumstances of Finding, Composition, Date of Concealment, Purpose

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Pages: 92-99
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54664/RPLK8434

Abstract:

The gold coin hoard from Abritus was found on May 3, 1971 during archaeological excavations along the inner face of the eastern fortress wall. A small number of coins were lost or misappropriated when found. The preserved 835 solids belong to the following rulers: Theodosius II – 5 (Constantinople), Marcianus – 56 (Constantinople), Pulcheria – 1 (Constantinople), Leo I – 296 (Constantinople – 283, Thessalonica – 13), Verina – 4 (Constantinople), Zeno – 437 (Constantinople), Basiliscus alone – 24 (Constantinople – 23, Thessalonica – 1), Basiliscus with his son Marcius – 10 (Constantinople), Leontius (usurper) – 1 (Antioch), Iulius Nepos – 1 (Arelate). In its entirety, the coin hoard probably contains 864 solids (12 pounds), stored in a small wooden box. It was probably hidden in 487AD during the revolt of the Goths, federates of Theodoric the Younger, against Emperor Zeno. It was meant for paying a ransom.

Keywords:

Abritus; Razgrad; gold coin hoard; Leo I; Zeno; Leontius

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