CONSTANS II.(641-668).Constantinople.Tremissis.

Obv : δ N CONSTANTINЧS P P AV.
Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.

Rev : VICTORIA AVGЧς / CONOB.
Cross potent.
Sear 984.
EX BIGA.

Condition : The coin is in good condition, with a distinct gold patina that reflects its metallic composition. The surface shows some wear, but the main features, such as the portrait and inscriptions, are still clear and well-defined. The patina gives the coin a consistent golden hue, enhancing its historical appearance while indicating its age.Very fine.

Material : Gold.
Axis : 6h

Weight : 1.31 gr
Diameter : 15 mm

The Byzantine Tremissis was a small gold coin that played an important role in the monetary system of the Byzantine Empire, particularly from the late 5th century through the early Middle Ages. The coin had its origins in the Roman tremissis, introduced during the reign of Emperor Diocletian as part of his currency reforms in the 3rd century CE. The tremissis, valued at one-third of a solidus (the primary gold coin of the empire), became a widely used denomination throughout the Byzantine period.

The Byzantine tremissis was typically about 1.5 grams in weight and made of high-quality gold, similar to the solidus, which was the backbone of the empire’s gold coinage system. While the solidus was used for larger transactions and stored as wealth, the tremissis was more practical for everyday smaller purchases and payments. Its lighter weight and lower value made it accessible for a wider range of transactions, and it became a standard coin not just in Byzantium, but also in trade throughout Europe, the Mediterranean, and even parts of the Middle East.

The introduction of the tremissis into the Byzantine monetary system can be traced back to the late Roman Empire, but its use expanded under the Byzantine emperors, starting with Anastasius I (491–518 CE). Anastasius undertook a major reform of Byzantine currency, establishing a more efficient and uniform system that became the basis for Byzantine economic stability. The tremissis was used alongside the solidus and another smaller denomination, the semissis (worth half a solidus), in a tripartite gold currency system.

The design of the Byzantine tremissis followed the typical aesthetic of Byzantine coinage, which was marked by its blend of Roman traditions and Christian imagery. The obverse of the coin usually featured a portrait of the reigning emperor, often depicted in military attire with a helmet or diadem, symbolizing imperial authority and the emperor’s role as the protector of the Christian faith. The emperor’s portrait was surrounded by inscriptions bearing his name and titles, typically in Latin during the earlier period, though later coins featured Greek as the language of the empire shifted.

On the reverse side of the tremissis, Christian symbols, particularly the cross, were commonly depicted. The most frequent design was a simple cross or a cross on steps, symbolizing the central role of Christianity in the Byzantine state. This Christian iconography was a significant departure from the earlier pagan symbols that had appeared on Roman coinage. Other designs included Victory, the angelic figure often used to represent military success and divine favor. The inclusion of these Christian motifs reflected the deep connection between the Byzantine emperors and the Christian Church, with the emperor seen as both a political and religious leader.

The tremissis was more than just a coin for internal use; it played a crucial role in Byzantine trade and diplomacy. Byzantine gold coinage, including the tremissis, was highly respected for its consistent weight and purity, which remained stable over centuries, unlike many other currencies of the time that were often debased. Byzantine coins, particularly the tremissis and solidus, were used extensively in international trade. They circulated not only within the Byzantine Empire but also across Europe, the Islamic world, and beyond, serving as a trusted and widely accepted form of currency.

During the early Middle Ages, as the Byzantine Empire's influence expanded and contracted, the tremissis became an essential part of the economic exchanges with neighboring regions. For example, Byzantine tremisses have been found in archaeological sites across Western Europe, indicating their use in trade with the Merovingian and Carolingian kingdoms in what is now France and Germany. In these regions, the tremissis was even imitated by local rulers, who produced their own versions of the coin to facilitate trade and maintain economic relations with Byzantium. These imitative tremisses often closely resembled the originals, though with variations in style and inscriptions.

As the Byzantine Empire entered the 7th and 8th centuries, the tremissis continued to be a key denomination in the Byzantine monetary system. However, economic and political changes in the empire eventually led to its decline. The continuous wars with the Sassanid Persians, followed by the rise of the Islamic Caliphate and the loss of many of Byzantium's eastern territories, placed great strain on the empire's economy. Additionally, the introduction of new silver and copper coinage, along with changes in trade patterns, began to diminish the importance of the tremissis by the 9th century.

The use of the tremissis gradually faded, with the last of these coins being minted in the early 9th century. By this time, the Byzantine monetary system had evolved, with more emphasis placed on copper coinage for everyday transactions and the solidus continuing to serve as the primary gold coin. The tremissis was eventually replaced by other denominations as part of the ongoing reforms of Byzantine currency.

Despite its decline, the tremissis left a lasting legacy in the monetary history of the Mediterranean world. Its role as a stable and trusted currency helped facilitate trade and economic stability during a period marked by significant political and military upheaval. The widespread circulation of the tremissis, along with its imitations by other cultures, underscores its importance in the broader economic network of the early medieval world.

In conclusion, the Byzantine tremissis was a small but significant gold coin that played a key role in the empire’s economy and trade. Introduced during the late Roman period, it continued to be a vital part of the Byzantine currency system for centuries. Its Christian symbolism, high gold content, and broad circulation made it an essential component of the Byzantine economy, both domestically and internationally. The tremissis stands as a testament to the enduring economic and cultural influence of the Byzantine Empire in the ancient and medieval worlds.