by Tim Wright
The people of pre-Roman Britain still remain an enigma. Our perceptions are shaped by 2 narratives,
that of contemporary Roman colonists and more recent Celtic nationalists, who vilify and glorify them
in equal measure. The more we learn, the less we know with certainty ; should they be described as
"Celtic People", were they organised "tribes" that later formed Roman administrative districts (civitas)
and, beyond a few famous names like Cunobelinus (Shakespeare's Cymbeline), were they led by
"kings" or "chieftains" ?
The coins from this period in history are no less controversial. Britain was a late adopter of coinage, initially
we imported coins from the Gallo-Belgic continent and then copying their Macedonian inspired prototypes.
Britain also produced them for longer than the continent, latterly incorporating themes and imagery from Rome.
These bookends of external influence have led to some to dismiss the coins of pre-Roman as inferior.
The most compelling counter to this is the coins themselves, explored through the theme of Art or Imitation ?
What we find is extraordinary variety and originality, that makes a powerful case for their collection and study.
A4 Hardback - 144 pages
