DENMARK. Gold Bracteate, ND (500-550). Northern Jutland (?). Migration Period.Mackeprang-340; Bruun-1180 (illustrated page 47). Weight: 1.29 gms. Suspension loop removed. A daylight crack is noted, but both the impression and the overall condition is exquisite.<p><em>Since the foundation of numismatics as a proper science in Denmark, the Scandinavian gold bracteates of the Migration Period have been treated alongside coins (cf. e.g., Bartholin, Antiquities Danicæ, 1689; Museum Regium, 1696 and 1710; Beskrivelsen af 1791, Class I, Plate I). Historically, many of the most prominent collectors took pride in being able to begin their collections of Danish "coins" in this distinguished manner (including Timm, Thomsen, Bruun, Hauberg and Glückstadt). As all bracteates without a very long pedigree are now considered National treasure, it is very rare to find these in the market today.</em><p><em>The motif on this type (academically referred to as type D) is highly stylized and - like here - most often depicts contorted mythical animals (Salins Style I). This animal style is characteristic of the 6th century and differs from the more anthropomorphic motifs found on the older types.</em>From the L. E. Bruun Collection.<p>Ex: Countship of Brahesminde Collection (Private Sale - 1922).<p>Ex: Georg F. Timm Collection (Copenhagen - 1831) Lot # 2. (Original collectors ticket included)<p>
