I came across this odd Byzantine coin, very thin and shaped like a mini dipping sauce cup. When I acquired this coin, I cannot say with any accuracy. I think it was back in the time when woolly mammoths roamed the San Francisco Bay Area. This is a gold histamenon nomisma of Isaac I Comnenus, who was Byzantine Emperor from 1057 to 1059. It is a scarce but obtainable coin. I guess I was drawn to it by the reverse, with Isaac I standing, face forward, looking to do business with a truly massive sword at his side. I do not see a Fitbit strapped to his wrist, but I imagine lifting that sword and swinging it about would register quite impressively on that device. Byzantine Empire, 1057-1059 Isaac I Comennus AV histamenon nomisma Constantinople Obverse: Christ Pantokrator enthroned facing Reverse: Isaac standing facing, holding labarum and sword in sheath 4.3 grams SB 1844 Berk - 313 VF 27.5mm, 6h
Thanks. This is my only Byzantine coin for "type". I had a few more, but sold them to raise funds a long time ago.
Beautiful coin! Interestingly, this is one of the few Byzantine coins where the Emperor is depicted in a militaristic way. One other one had him with that sword drawn. Then again, Isaac was a general.
Thank you all for the compliments on this coin. Yes, it is an appealing example and in good nick. This coin came from a coin shop that is within walking distance from my house. The purchase was made in the early 90's. The shop has since then become almost exclusively a jewelry shop.
