Michael VIII Palaeologus. 1261-1282. BI Trachy (19mm, 0.98 g, 6h). Thessalonica mint(?). Fine.

Electronic Auction 548
Lot: 738. Estimated: $ 100

Byzantine, Billon

Sold For $ 60. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

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Michael VIII Palaeologus. 1261-1282. BI Trachy (19mm, 0.98 g, 6h). Thessalonica mint(?). Half-length facing bust of St. Demetius, holding sword and shield / Crowned and winged facing figure of Michael, wearing loros, holding cruciform scepter and globus cruciger. Cf. DOC 144-6 and 171-3 (for similar obv./rev. types); BTM T.3 and T.12 (same); cf. SB 2296 and 2305 (same). Dark green-brown patina. Fine.

From the Iconodule Collection.

An interesting piece, almost certainly of Michael VIII due to the winged figure wearing the stemma (crown) and loros. The obverse appears to be of a martial saint and while the legend in inconclusive, bears the strongest resemblance to St. Demetius as depicted in BTM T.3. The reverse corresponds closest to Michael VIII in BTM T.12. However, the figure appears to bear a cruciform scepter in the right hand rather than a labarum. This is not problematic, however, as other reverse designs of Michael VIII have him cradling a cruciform scepter as is likely found here. All said, an interesting example that will require a clearer specimen to truly confirm.

Closing Date and Time: 18 October 2023 at 14:05:40 ET.

All winning bids are subject to a 20% buyer’s fee.