Early Medieval coins

Early Medieval coins provide a fascinating glimpse into the transformation of Europe following the decline of the Western Roman Empire. From the Migration Period onwards, new kingdoms and trading communities developed their own coinages while preserving elements of Roman and Byzantine monetary traditions. Gold tremisses, silver sceattas and other denominations were issued by peoples including the Ostrogoths, Visigoths, Lombards, Franks and Anglo-Saxons. Their designs combine royal portraits, Christian symbols, monograms, animals and increasingly distinctive regional imagery.

💡 Many early Germanic rulers initially placed the name or portrait of a Roman or Byzantine Emperor on their coins rather than their own. Imitating familiar imperial coinage helped the new kingdoms gain recognition and confidence in their money. Over time, these borrowed designs evolved into independent styles that reflected new rulers, cultures and religious identities.

Discover the changing world between Antiquity and the Middle Ages – browse our collection of authentic Migration Period and Early Medieval coins and own a tangible piece of Europe’s formative history.