scyphatus

coin

Also known as: nummus scyphatus

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

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The term nummi scyphati refers to Byzantine coins that changed in form from the 10th century onward. These coins, originally gold nomismata (successors to the solidus), transitioned to a wider, thinner blank that was given a cup shape, hence the name "cup money". The purity of these gold scyphati declined over time.1

The word "scyphatus" is derived from the Latin word scyphus, meaning "cup". This term is also used as a combining form in scientific contexts, meaning "cup" or "can".234

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coin
The later Byzantine empires
…shape, hence the name nummi scyphati (cup money); gold scyphati declined in purity until, under Nicephorus III (1078–81), they were very base. Silver remained generally scarce; the issue of bronze became uneven. New conventions in legends and types were introduced: Constantine IX (1042–55) showed on his silver an invocation to…
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…shape, hence the name nummi scyphati (cup money); gold scyphati declined in purity until, under Nicephorus III (1078–81), they were very base. Silver remained generally scarce; the issue of bronze became uneven. New conventions in legends and types were introduced: Constantine IX (1042–55) showed on his silver an invocation to…
Read More