Constantine VII, AE Nummus, Constantinople Mint, 913-959 AD

$28.00

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SKU: B2.22 Category:

Description

Constantine VII, AE Nummus (bronze, 5.17g, 25mm), Constantinople Mint, 913-959 AD
Obv: crowned facing bust of Constantine wearing loros and holding globus cruciger and akakia
Rev: ⧾ CO[ҺSƮ] ЄИ ΘЄO b[A]SILЄVS [R]OM[ЄOҺ] in four lines
Ref: Sear 1760-1 Rarity/Choice: Common, aVF
Note: Constantine VII, also known as Constantine VII Porphyrogenitus (“born in the purple”), ruled the Byzantine Empire from 913 to 959 AD. Ascending to the throne as a child, his early reign was dominated by regents and co-emperors. His tenure is noted for significant cultural and intellectual achievements, including the compilation of encyclopedic works like the “De Administrando Imperio” and “De Ceremoniis,” which provided invaluable insights into Byzantine politics and court life. Constantine VII promoted the arts and learning, leading to a renaissance in Byzantine culture. Despite his focus on cultural and administrative reforms, his reign faced challenges from external threats and internal power struggles. His legacy is largely defined by his contributions to preserving and documenting Byzantine heritage.