Nomos 13

BYZANTINE WEIGHTS, Eastern Mediterranean/Aegean Area. Circa 5th-6th century. Weight of 1-libra or 72-nomismata (solidi) (Brass, once inlaid with silver, c. 58x11 mm, 320.35 g), a thick, octagonal coin- and commercial-weight with plain edges (as MAH C1), libra of 320.35 g, nomisma of 4.45 g. Within a hatched ribbon border with a circle in each angle, a Latin cross on a triangular base, and with a Within at the top and at the end of each arm; when viewed with the base at the bottom, the letters on the cross are upside down and the weight letters 𐌣Α are to left and right; if the cross is turned upside down, the letters on the cross read Ν-Ο-Β (=nomismata 72). Rev. Plain. An apparently unknown and particularly interesting type, thus of great rarity. A fascinating weight with a gold-brown patina. Good very fine.

From the Eparch Collection.

Octagonal weights were themselves quite rarely made, and it seems that no other exist of a denomination higher than 3 ounces (or 18 solidi). In addition, weights bearing an indication of both their commercial weight and the relevant number of solidi/nomisma are extremely unusual. This piece is, thus, exceptional in every way.