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Phocas. 602-610. AV Solidus (21.5mm, 4.36 g, 6h). Thessalonica mint. Dated IY 8 (604/5). Crowned, draped, and cuirassed bust facing, holding globus cruciger / Angel standing facing, holding long staff surmounted by staurogram and globus cruciger; H//CONOB. DOC –; MIBE 3; SB 617A (Constantinople). Toned, trace die rust. EF. Rare.
From the G. Savonarola Collection. Ex Classical Numismatic Group 106 (13 September 2017), lot 871.
While Phocas is often derided as a tyrant who brought the East Roman or Byzantine Empire to the brink of destruction, his reign witnessed some interesting numismatic innovations. Coin portraiture, which had become so stylized as to be generic since the late fourth century AD, suddenly saw hints of realism return. While preceding emperors had been shown as blandly clean-shaven and round-faced, Phocas appears on his coins as a shaggy, rough-hewn soldier with a lean, angular face, no doubt reflecting his actual appearance.
The final winners of all CNG Feature Auction 129 lots will be determined during the live online sale that will be held on 13-14 May 2025. This lot is in Session Two, which will begin 13 May at 2 PM ET.
Winning bids are subject to a 22.5% buyer's fee for bids placed on this website and 25% for all others.
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