Anglo-Saxons poorly imitate Roman gold coin with errors

In January 2023, a unique piece of Anglo-Saxon jewelry was discovered by a metal detectorist in Attleborough, Norfolk, England. This pendant, dated to the late fifth to early sixth century, serves as a poor imitation of the Roman solidus, a gold coin introduced in the fourth century A.D. by Emperor Constantine. The obverse of the pendant features a bust of Emperor Honorius, who ruled the Western Roman Empire from A.D. 393 to 423. The reverse of the pendant incorrectly reproduces the Latin inscription that should read "RESTITVTOR REIPVBLICAE," instead displaying a jumble of letters: "STITVTOR EIPVBLICAE." This reflects the Anglo-Saxons' still developing writing system during this period. Their intention behind creating such a piece was not to replicate the coin for currency purposes but to create an item of adornment, signifying a cultural connection to the Roman world. The pendant has been declared treasure under U.K. law since it is made of gold and exceeds 300 years in age, highlighting its historical and cultural significance. This artifact underscores the Anglo-Saxons' desire to connect with a past era, particularly one marked by the transition from paganism to Christianity in the region, during a time when the Anglo-Saxon society was undergoing significant cultural shifts after the decline of Roman authority in Britain.