Some jewellery carries history. This one carries more than 1,600 years of it.
An extraordinary ancient Roman bronze coin from the reign of Emperor Valens, AD 364–378, held within a sculptural 9ct white gold setting by Australian jeweller Peter Prischl. Even more remarkably, the pendant retains its original Peter Prischl certificate, identifying the coin, its dates and the maker of the setting.
Valens ruled the Eastern Roman Empire during one of its most turbulent periods. His reign was marked by conflict with the Goths along the Danube and pressure from Persia in the East. In AD 378, he led Roman forces against the Goths at the Battle of Adrianople. The battle ended catastrophically: much of the Roman army was destroyed and Valens himself was killed. This tiny coin comes directly from that extraordinary chapter of Roman history.
Its later story is Australian. Peter Prischl comes from a family of jewellers with roots in Vienna and South Africa. He arrived in Australia in 1973, worked for prestigious Sydney jewellers Bruce and Walsh, then established his own design studio in 1976. His Sydney jewellery house continues today, specialising in bespoke, vintage and antique jewellery — and Prischl still works with ancient Roman coins.
The coin itself has been left wonderfully ancient: dark, worn and richly patinated, with flashes of green developed across its bronze surface. The polished white gold setting holds it almost like an artefact in a museum mount, allowing both faces to remain visible.
Ancient Rome, Australian craftsmanship and over sixteen centuries of history in one remarkable piece.
Details: Weighs: 5.5g 2.2cm W x 2.9cm H with bale x 2mm thick - Stamped 375 (9ct) White gold. NOTE WELL: This is an ancient coin and should not be cleaned - Use a jewellery cleaning cloth to rub over the white gold setting but not the coin. To maintain it's irregularities and colour differences is part of it's charm and ancient history. Discolouration to the coin is part of the beauty.
GOLDEN GIRL NOTICE and T&Cs: All measurements and weights are approximate. These are preloved vintage pieces that have been carefully curated for you to enjoy for years to come. Antique and vintage jewellery may have imperfections or age-related wear which adds to its charm and character. I will mention and photograph any major imperfections in the description and photographs. Photographs form part of the description. All pieces are examined by my jeweller before being sent. Pieces cannot be returned due to change of mind.
Jewellery Care: Clean gently with a soft clean cloth and avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives. Store in a pouch or jewellery box to prevent scratches.
