Had this one for a while now. Unlike the close-up facing portraits, this type displays Justinian enthroned, and this type is unique to the mint of Theupolis (Antioch). It was believed to have been struck only from 529-533 AD, this short striking period I believe contributing to it's general scarcity. Its unique, interesting design and its scarcity is what drew me to this coin, oh and the fact that I am a fan of early Byzantine For those that don't know, Justinian is regarded as the most successful and most powerful emperor the Eastern Roman Empire ever had in its 1100-year history. He waged wars against the western European and North African Germanic barbarian kingdoms and conquered back many of Rome's former territories, including Italy and the city of Rome itself: http://www.ancient.eu/Justinian_I/ Justinian, Byzantine Empire AE Follis Obv: D N IVSTINI-ANVS PP AVG, seated, facing on throne, holding sceptre and cross on globe Rev: Large M, star to left, cross above, A below, crescent to right Mint: Theupolis (cross THEVP in ex; struck 529-533 AD) Ref: SB 214 If anyone has any examples of this type, feel free to post them.
Thanks Bing. Yeah, its tough to find this type (especially in this shape or better) compared to the average facing portrait coins.
I got a new byzantine also but will share it in my own time. I like the early ones too. Hopefully in 2015 I will be into byzantines more. Dont have this type to share, just a common half follis. Justinian I, (527-565 A.D.) Ae 1/2 Follis O: DN IVSTINI-ANVS PP AVG,Diademed draped and cuirassed bust right. R: Large K, cross to left, star above and below, officinia gamma to right. 22mm 9.9g Constantinople mint SB 164; Doc 33
Nice ... Congrats, Jango => that's a cool addition (I am totally believing that you know that your type is more rare than the stinker that I'm about to post) ... => yup, it's my classic close-up-facing pizza example ... ... oh, and don't worry too much about their judging comments, my sweet Pizza-boy => hold your head up high and be proud (wear that close-up-pizza-face like a badge!!) ... awesome addition, my friend (good to see you posting again)
Nice coin, VK! The detail is light, but it's all there. I much prefer a coin like that to one where the detail is strong in a few places and altogether gone in others.
that's a nice byzantine VK, Justinian "enthroned" is on my list as well. man, I don't think I've purchased a byzantine this year!
Justinian is one of the most interesting emperors and there are numerous books written about his reign. Here is my web site on the unusual variety of mintmarks under Justinian: http://esty.ancients.info/interesting/Justinian.html Here is one of my favorites from that page:
