A fascinating discovery was made in January 2023 near Attleborough, Norfolk, England—a 5th-century Anglo-Saxon pendant that mimics a Roman gold coin. This pendant, declared a treasure under British law, reveals the creativity and cultural interests of the Anglo-Saxon people. Despite being a fake Roman coin, the artifact holds great historical value.
What Is the Anglo-Saxon Pendant?
The pendant is a handcrafted imitation of a Roman solidus coin from the reign of Emperor Honorius (393–423 CE). It shows the bust of Honorius on one side, wearing a pearl diadem and armor. The reverse side features a figure holding a military standard and a miniature of Nike, the goddess of victory. These designs celebrate Roman imperial triumphs, a theme admired by the Anglo-Saxons.
Latin Errors and Their Meaning
The pendant’s inscriptions contain typos due to the Anglo-Saxons’ limited writing system. The Latin phrase “RESTITVTOR REIPVBLICAE” was misspelled as “STITVTOR EIPVBLICAE.” This demonstrates their attempt to replicate Roman designs despite not fully understanding the language.
Cultural Significance
Although Anglo-Saxons were pagans, they included Christian symbols like the cross on the pendant. This shows their respect for Roman imagery and an attempt at cultural connection. According to expert Adrian Marsden, crafting an entire piece of jewelry based on a coin is rare and adds to its uniqueness.
Why Is It Declared Treasure?
Under UK law, artifacts made of gold or silver and older than 300 years are classified as “treasure.” Such items are protected and often sold to museums for public display. The pendant is valued at £6,000 and is expected to join a museum collection.
Key Details About the Pendant
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date Found | January 2023 |
| Material | Gold |
| Historical Period | Late 5th–Early 6th Century |
| Modeled After | Roman Solidus Coin |
| Estimated Value | £6,000 |
| Declared Treasure | Yes, under UK law |
Conclusion
The Anglo-Saxon pendant is more than just an imitation—it is a window into a culture fascinated by Roman heritage. Despite its flaws, the pendant symbolizes an effort to connect with a sophisticated, bygone era. Its discovery adds to our understanding of the 5th-century Anglo-Saxon world, blending history, art, and cultural curiosity.
FAQ’s
What is the historical significance of the pendant?
The pendant is a 5th-century Anglo-Saxon imitation of a Roman solidus coin, showcasing the Anglo-Saxons’ fascination with Roman culture and imagery.
Why does the pendant have typographical errors?
The errors occur due to the limited development of the Anglo-Saxon writing system at the time.
What will happen to the pendant after the auction?
The pendant, if sold, will likely be acquired by a museum for preservation due to its treasure status.