Byzantine, Basil I The Macedonian with Constantine, Gold Solidus, 867-886
Denomination: Gold solidus
Period: Byzantine and Macedonian dynasty
Date: 867-886AD
Origin: Constantinople mint
Condition: VF, scuff to obverse, wear to high points
Obverse: Crowned facing busts of Basil and Constantine, patriarchal cross between, legend reads bASILIOS ET COhSTAhT AVGG b
Reverse: Christ Pantokrator seated facing on throne, +IhS XPS REX REGNANTIVM *
Size and Weight: 19mm, 4.5g
References: Sear 1704
Features and Provenance: Basil I (also known as the Macedonian) was a Byzantine emperor reigning from 867 to 886. He was born a peasant but rose to prominence within the Macedonian court, where he was given lavish riches for his services. In 866 he became co-emperor with Michael III and was acclaimed sole emperor on Michael's death - apparently having been the instigator of his assassination! Although Michael may have got his revenge, on Basil's death Leo VI took the throne who may well have been Michael's son and not Basil's. Basil had an elaborate family tree drawn up to prove he had a direct line to the throne through the Roman emperor, Constantine. He even named his son after him, and he is seen with Basil on our coin.
Condition Summary. This varies with the age of coin and there are grades between
Uncirculated (U). As struck with no traces of wear
Extremely Fine (EF). Very slight traces of wear, all parts of legend etc present, visible and clear
Very Fine (VF). Some signs of wear on the higher parts of the relief, all parts of legend etc present, but maybe worn
Fine (F). Wear on the coin and parts of legend etc may be missing or not visible
- Product Code: RNC073
- Availability: 1
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£470.00