216, Lot: 546. Estimate $100. Sold for $195. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

BYZANTINE. Stephanos. Imperial kandidatos, circa 9th century. PB Seal (24mm, 9.24 g, 12h). Patriarchal cross on three steps / +CTEΦ/ANω R KA/NΔIΔ. BLS I-; BLS II -; DOCBS -. Good VF.

A kandidatos was originally member of a select group of guards founded by Diocletian to replace the earlier Praetorian Guard. However, by the 9th century, it had become a mere dignity.