Lot 4243
Heraclius, 610-641, with Heraclius Constantine. Gold Solidus (4.4g) minted at Ravenna, 613. DD NN HERACLIVS ET HERA CONT PP AV. Facing busts of Heraclius, with short beard, and Heraclius Constantine, beardless and smaller, each crowned and wearing paludamentum and cuirass; between heads, cross; heavy annular border. Reverse: VICTORI - A AVGGG B. Cross potent on base of four steps; below, CONOB; heavy annular border. Sear 896; DO 271. Nice and bold. Rare. Superb Extremely Fine.
During the long reign of the emperor Heraclius (610-641), the design of the gold solidus underwent many changes, as the senior emperor aged and his two sons were gradually advanced to a full share in the imperial office. This type belongs to the earlier part of the joint reign of Heraclius and his elder son Heraclius Constantine (613-29), the senior emperor appearing with a short beard and his son beardless. Most solidi of this type were struck at the capital of Constantinople but there are rarer issues produced by provincial mints.
This excellent example comes from the northern Italian mint of Ravenna, the products of which are characterized by their heavy annular borders as well as considerable stylization in the treatment of the imperial costume. At Constantinople, the letters at the end of the reverse inscription indicate the officina or workshop responsible for the production of the coin, but this is not the case at Ravenna. Thus, on this specimen the letter 'B' is of uncertain meaning.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,500.
The Hunter Collection.
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| Realized $1,668 |
