Gold coins

Merovingian gold tremissis of the moneyer Ioannes (John) of Cadolidi or Capolidi, probably early 7th century. The front shows a very crude diademed bust, probably facing left. The back shows an unusual cross, probably derived from a Byzantine cross-on-steps design. Although very little of the inscription can be read, it can be identified from its similarity to another coin, now in Paris. The location of Cadolidi/ Capolidi is uncertain. 

 Merovingian gold tremissis of the moneyer Vitalis of Paris, late 6th- early 7th century. The inscription on the front tells us that the coin was issued in Paris. The back gives the name of the moneyer, although part of the inscription is missing. The front shows a diademed bust facing right, and the back shows a cross amcrée, possibly over a globe. This coin belongs to a series that was in use from c.570/580-c.670; more precise dating will depend on testing the purity of the gold.

At Sutton Hoo, 37 Merovingian coins were found, the latest of which dates to the 620s.