Lot 2612
Justin II, 565-578. Gold Solidus (4.42 g) minted at Constantinople. Helmeted and cuirassed bust facing of Justin II holding globe surmounted by Victory, and shield. Reverse: Constantinopolis seated holding spear and globus cruciger. D.O. 4e; S. 345. Full flan with excellent detail. Superb Extremely Fine.
Constantinian and later coin portraiture departed markedly from that of the AD first century or of the Hadrianic School. No more modeled jowls, inset eyes or three-dimensional sculpting. The coinage of the AD fourth century became flat, decidedly two-dimensional. Stock images were used as the marketplace no longer demanded individualistic features. Very few specific historical events were commemorated; no longer did the reverse of coins focus on the greatness of the emperor or of the empire. Was this coin designed to portray Justin II? No, only to suggest the emperorship in a sixth century artistic manner. All Byzantine coins, with certain exceptions, were similarly conceived.
Estimated Value $425 - 475.
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| Realized $719 |
