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Constans II. 641-668. AV Half Tremissis (13.5mm, 0.71 g, 7h). Constantinople mint. Diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust right / Cross potent; CONOB. Cf. DOC 18 (Constantine IV); MIB 52 (Tremissis); SB 984A. Clipped, bent and straightened, some deposits. Good Fine. Extremely rare, only two other known examples which reside at Dumbarton Oaks and the ANS.
From the Joshua Lee Collection. Ex Aventine Numismatics.
This extremely rare issue lends itself to some further discussion. The half tremisses of Constans II and Constantine IV are an extremely rare denomination further complicated by the fact that the normal full tremisses of the two rulers are largely indistinguishable in both appearance and legend. The two issues of these two rulers are solely differentiated on the basis on style with the finer style being indicative of Constans II whereas the poorer examples are assigned to Constantine IV. While this coin’s obverse has somewhat less remaining detail than the DOC and ANS coins, what is clearly visible on the coin seems more indicative of the normal tremisses of Constans II rather than those of his son. In particular, the diadem dies and the reverse legend style tracks more closely with the tremisses of Constans. For these reasons this coin has been attributed here to Constans.
In terms of rarity and references, one will find in SB the references 984A under Constans II, and 1163 under Constantine IV. In SB 984A, Sear et al reference the ANS coin. However, the ANS’ online catalogue entry – 1968-131-169 – catalogues their coin under Constantine IV and furthermore references the DOC coin which is also cataloged under Constantine IV. In SB 1163, Sear also references the DOC coin but further makes mention that MIB did not accept the half tremissis as a separate denomination. Instead, MIB while did catalog the ANS coin under Constans, they did so, however, as a full tremissis.
In the end, it may be difficult to make a definitive determination as to whether these interesting coins ought to be attributed to Constans II or his son Constantine IV. Regardless, this is a rare opportunity to acquire a fascinating coin from a captivating series.
Closing Date and Time: 22 February 2023 at 13:33:20 ET.
All winning bids are subject to an 20% buyer’s fee.
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