© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Basilikon - John VI Kantakouzenos ND
| Silver | 1 g | 19 mm |
| Issuer | Byzantine Empire (Byzantine states) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | John VI Kantakouzenos (1353-1354) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1353-1354 |
| Value | Basilikon |
| Currency | Second Hyperpyron Nomisma (env. 1300-1367) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1 g |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#342476 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
John and St. Demetrius standing, facing
Script: Latin
Lettering:
KHTI
(letters in left field are unintelligible)
Comment
Sear Byzantine (BCV) reference says this type is similar to other Basilikons yet cruder.The piece in the image was from a CNG auction Oct 2022 and is heavy at 2.24 grams.
This also looks to be overstruck on an existing coin, which may have been a thicker planchet explaining the weight.
another example:
https://www.acsearch.info/search.html?id=131817
Interesting fact
The Basilikon coin , which was issued during the reign of John VI Kantakouzenos in the 14th century, features an image of the Byzantine emperor on one side and an image of Jesus Christ on the other. This was a common design feature of Byzantine coins during this period, as the emperors saw themselves as the representatives of Christ on earth. The use of religious imagery on coins was also seen as a way to promote the Christian faith and reinforce the idea of the emperor's divine right to rule.
