Byzantine Coin Pendant: Elite Evidence Shines New Light on Early Medieval Essex

A rare 6th-century pseudo-Byzantine gold coin pendant discovered near Thaxted reveals previously unknown elite presence in early medieval Essex.

Yo, check it! A blingy Byzantine coin pendant has turned up near Thaxted, Essex, and it's throwin' major shade on what we thought we knew about the area's early medieval VIPs. This ain't your grandma's souvenir; it's elite evidence, baby!

A Golden Glimpse into Essex's Forgotten Elite

This ain't just any shiny object. This gold pendant, a 6th-century imitation of a Byzantine coin, is the first archaeological mic drop confirming that high-rollers were chillin' in Essex way back when. Discovered by a metal detectorist and declared treasure, this pendant is causin' a stir among historians and archaeologists alike.

The pendant is a copy of a gold solidus from Emperor Justin II's reign (AD 565–578). The detail is insane – you've got the helmeted emperor holding his Victory figure and shield. On the back, Constantinople is chilling with her scepter and globe. But here's the kicker: it was turned into jewelry, complete with a loop, so someone could flex on everyone with it. It was probably worn a lot based on how worn the back is.

Flipping the Script on Essex History

Lori Rogerson, Essex County Finds Liaison Officer, straight up said this find is “flipping what we thought we knew about Essex at this time on its head.” We're talkin' no written records, so this pendant is basically a spotlight in the dark ages. These types of items don't show up in your average digs, so this find is crucial.

While these pseudo-imperial solidi were minted across Europe, finding one in Essex is like finding a decent slice of pizza outside of NYC – rare and noteworthy. It's adding weight to the theory that early medieval Essex was more complex and wealthy than previously assumed. Other finds, like the “Prittlewell Prince” burial, are also hinting at a boujee past. Suddenly, Essex is looking like a low-key hub for ancient ballers.

Metal Detecting: Unearthing the Past, One Coin at a Time

This discovery not only adds to our understanding of Essex’s forgotten past but also highlights the importance of metal detecting and community archaeology. Who knows what other secrets are buried beneath our feet? So, next time you see someone with a metal detector, remember they might just be uncovering the next big historical flex.

So, there you have it, folks! A Byzantine coin pendant turning Essex history on its head. Who knew a little bling could reveal so much about the past? It's a wild reminder that history is always full of surprises. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to buy a metal detector. You never know what treasures await!