LOMBARDS. Beneventum. Sicard (832-839). Pale GOLD Solidus.

Obv: SICARDV•.
Crowned bust facing, holding globus cruciger; small triangle in right field.
Rev: VICTOR PRINCI / S - I / CONOB (B retrograde).
Cross potent; small cross above; small wedge to either side of base.

MIR 220; BMC Vandals 1-2.

Despite the moment of weakness of the Byzantine Empire, under the rule of Theophilus, and the discord that was tearing the Carolingians apart at the time of Lothair, Sicard failed to take advantage of this to avoid the parable of decline of the principality of Benevento. The anarchy and revolt were the result of several factors, mainly the difficult trading conditions of the principality, the people's constant opposition to any reforms and Sicard's cruelty. The prince, who was at war with the Neapolitan dukedom, stripped churches and monasteries and seized relics to be shipped to Benevento, imprisoning relatives and nobles who could constitute a danger. After a series of plunderings, confiscations and death sentences of citizens and enemies, he was finally killed by the Beneventans, starting a period of anarchy for the principality.

Condition: Very fine.

Weight: 3.96 g.
Diameter: 21 mm.