★ Amalasuntha Quarter Siliqua ★

Ostrogothic Italy, Amalasuntha (534-535). AR Quarter Siliqua. Pseudo-Imperial Coinage. In the name of Justinian I. Ravenna mint. Obv. DN I[VSTIN]I AN A[---]. Pearl-diademed and mantled bust right. Rev. Monogram of Theoderic (no cross above) within wreath. Ranieri 304 (Witigis); MEC 1, 138; MIB 59 (Witigis); COI 64 (Witigis); Kraus 3 (Hildebrand). AR. 0.74 g. 11.5 mm. RR. A superb example of this very rare and debated issue. Sharply struck on sound metal; attractive light tone over brilliant surfaces. EF. This restitution series featuring the monogram of Theodoric has been examined by scholars. Grierson suggests that it was minted during the early part of Theodahad's reign, when Amalasuntha was officially recognized as the new sovereign. These quarter siliquae display Justinian's name on the obverse and the monogram of Amalasuntha's father on the reverse. Grierson argues that this was necessary for the Ostrogoths to acknowledge her rule. However, Hahn and Metlich have differing views, attributing this series to Witigis instead.