Merovingian. Anonymous gold Tremissis ND (c. AD 580-670) UNC (Wax Residue), Banassac mint, Elafius as moneyer, MEC I-423 var., Prou-2074, Belfort-670-673. 13mm. 1.23gm. Refined, Imperial-style diademed bust right, pellet below, cross with pellet above and below to right / T ELAFIVƧ MONETA (NE ligate), chalice or goblet. Among the most coveted types of the so-called "national" series, the coinage of Banassac is renowned for its careful artistry, producing fully classical-style portraiture and expertly laid-out legends. Unlike the majority of Merovingian Tremisses of this period that carry the mint name in full or abbreviated, Grierson has pointed out that Banassac was among the few locales to make use of a sort of canting badge, with the goblet on the reverse likely meant to serve as a play on the name Civitas Gabolorum, where Banassac was situated. It is also worthy of note that the name Elafius (or Elaphius) is relatively rare in Merovingian Gaul, and is known only in the south, and solely from Bannaciacum among moneyers. We would note that the few small spots of red wax that appear around the raised features are likely the result of a plating in an old collection catalog.

HID09801242017

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