Solidus

About Solidus

Introduced by Constantine the Great, the solidus remained unchanged in weight and purity for nearly 700 years. Known as the bezant in Western Europe. At 4.5 grams of pure gold, it was the trusted currency of international trade from Britain to China. The stability of the solidus anchored the Byzantine economy. It was collected as tribute by barbarian kingdoms and hoarded across Europe. The word soldier derives from solidus as troops were paid in this coin.