Nummus

The term nummus has a complex meaning in numismatics and originally derives from the Latin word for ‘coin’, which in turn is derived from the Greek nomos – a term that originally meant “law” or ‘custom’. In ancient times, nummus was initially a general term for coins, for example in the form ‘nummus aureus’ for a gold coin. In the course of coinage history, however, the term became specialised to refer to certain types of coins, especially in the Roman and Byzantine regions. Nummus gained particular significance during the currency reform under Emperor Diocletian in the late 3rd century AD. In this context, a new bronze coin, originally silver-plated, was introduced, which is often referred to as follis. This coin served as an important component of a newly reorganised coinage system that aimed to ensure stability and confidence in the currency. The nummus appeared as the name for the coin itself or as an indication of its value. Even though the silver content of the coin was gradually reduced over time, it remained a central element in the payment system of the late Roman Empire. With the coin reform under the Byzantine Emperor Anastasius I in 498 AD, the role of the nummus was further developed. New bronze coins with fixed values were introduced, such as the follis worth 40 nummi, as well as smaller units worth 20, 10 or 5 nummi. These coins were clearly inscribed and were intended to make everyday use easier to track. The terms nummus and follis were often used synonymously, even though they originally had different connotations. Traces of the nummus can also be found on bronze coins from the Migration Period, on which the value is often indicated in nummi. This continuity demonstrates the importance of the term and its relevance to the monetary economy over centuries. For numismatists, the nummus is now a fascinating collector’s item that not only reflects different historical eras, but also documents diverse developments in coinage technology, symbolism and economic function.