Example:

1.  Our primary source is a solidus from the Merovingian period:  https://library.artstor.org/#/asset/BERLIN_DB_10313748890;prevRouteTS=1632778033101.  The reverse can be seen here: https://library.artstor.org/#/asset/BERLIN_DB_10313748888;prevRouteTS=1632778205639

2.  What questions do you have?

What is a solidus?

Who was Childebert III?

How/why was the solidus used?

Where did the gold come from (economy and trade)?

Who were the goldsmiths in Marseilles?  How did they learn their craft?

How did Merovingian kings see themselves in relation to Rome?

Who had the authority/power to mint coinage?

3.  Research strategies

     Tertiary sources:  Figure out the who and the what, and see recommendations for secondary sources to consult.

     Secondary sources:  Explore a few different possible research avenues to see what you find, then select a path.