An exceptional Sarmatian cast medallion with star and crescent

Abstract

An exceptional find of a so-called Sarmatian coin imitation in the form of a lead amulet came to light at Martfű. The obverse is decorated with a bust facing left, the reverse with the usual crescent and star motif. The piece is cast with a loop and an elaborate frame decoration with segmented rims resembling Roman disc fibulae that were popular with the Sarmatians. These types of coins have so far been known only as pierced or looped copper alloy coins primarily from in the Middle Tisza region, although finds outside the Carpathian Basin have also been recently discovered. This new elaborate piece sheds new light on the role and significance of the Sarmatian coin imitations in their society.