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Thrymsa 'Witmen' type
| Issuer | Early Anglo-Saxon |
|---|---|
| Year | 620-645 |
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| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
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|---|---|
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| Reverse description | A prominent cross fourchée (forked or floriated cross) occupies the central field, with splayed, branching terminals on each arm, as visible in the hammered fabric of this irregular flan. A blundered or pseudo-legend, derived from unintelligible imitation of Roman or Merovingian lettering, surrounds the central device in a circular arrangement. The legend is entirely debased and carries no legible meaning, consistent with the 'Witmen' type's known characteristics. The overall reverse design reflects the Anglo-Saxon moneyers' adaptation of Continental prototypes during the early gold coinage period. |
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| Edge | Plain |
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| Additional information |
Thrymsas are among the earliest native Anglo-Saxon gold coinages, derived directly from Merovingian and late Roman prototypes as Continental trade flooded the Thames estuary ports during the early seventh century. The 'Witmen' type takes its name from a runic or pseudo-runic inscription that has never been definitively read — 'witmen' is itself a scholarly convenience rather than a confirmed reading.
Struck most likely in or near London, these pieces circulated in a world where coin use was still largely confined to elite exchange and tribute payment rather than daily commerce.