Solidus - Constantine VII and Romanos II (Constantinopolis) ND (945-959) front Solidus - Constantine VII and Romanos II (Constantinopolis) ND (945-959) back
Solidus - Constantine VII and Romanos II (Constantinopolis) ND (945-959) photo
© Maison Palombo

Solidus - Constantine VII and Romanos II Constantinopolis ND

 
Gold 4.41 g 20 mm
Description
Issuer
Byzantine Empire (Byzantine states)
Emperor
Constantine VII Porphyrogennetos (913-959) Romanos II Porphyrogennetos (945-963)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
945-959
Value
Solidus (1)
Currency
Second Solidus Nomisma (720-1092)
Composition
Gold
Weight
4.41 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#33611
Rarity index
90%

Reverse

To left, bust of Constantinus VII facing, bearded, wearing crown cruciger and loros; to right, bust of Romanus II facing, beardless, wearing chlamys and crown cruciger; between them, both holding long patriarchal cross.

Script: Latin

Lettering: COnSTAnT' CE ROmAn AVG bR

Translation: "Constantinus and Romanus Augusts, Kings of Romans".

Edge

Gross

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features the joint rule of Constantine VII and Romanos II, who were co-emperors of the Byzantine Empire from 945 to 959. This period saw significant political and military turmoil, including the loss of key territories to the Arabs and the Bulgarians, as well as internal power struggles that threatened the stability of the empire. Despite these challenges, the Solidus coin remained a symbol of the empire's wealth and power, with its high gold content and intricate design.