c. 4th-6th Century CE

This square weight was produced in the Eastern Mediterranean as a tool of the large amount of trade occurring in the region. The weight is square with the denominational mark for 6 ounces (Γ-S) and two circles outside a radiant cross. All designs are inlaid with copper.

In very fine condition.

4.3 x 4.4 cm (1.69 x 1.7 inches)

Worldwide Shipping and Certificate of Authenticity Included in Price.

Export Approval from the Israel Antiquities Authority

Bibliography:

Laiou, Angeliki, ed., “The Economic History of Byzantium: From the Seventh through the Fifteenth Centuries.”, (Washington D.C., 2002)

As a successor to the Roman Empire, the Byzantines built their monetary and administrative system largely on the precedent they inherited. Weights such as these were based on the Byzantine litra, itself a derivation of the Roman pound. The litra was then divided into 12 ounces which were then used to make weights of various denominations. Therefore, making this six-ounce weight worth half a litra.

Generally, weights were made of either bronze, glass, or lead with precious metals rarely being used. Three forms were prominent and consisted of a double truncated flattened sphere, a square, or a disc. The square weight, such as this one, was the most prominent form from the 4th to the late 6th Centuries CE when the disc weight superseded it.