Lot 2722

Description

Basil II, (A.D.976-1025), with Constantine VIII Co-emperor throughout reign and also (A.D.1025-1028), gold histamenon nomisma, Constantinople mint, (4.425 grams), obv. Christ bust facing wearing nimbus with crescents in upper quarters, raising right hand, in left hand the Gospels, I[h]S XIS REX REgNANTInm around, rev. +bASIL C CONSTANT I bR around, facing busts of Basil on left wearing loros of square pattern, and Constantine on right wearing jewelled chlamys, each wearing crown, each holding between them a plain cross, (S.1800, D.O.6a). Scratch on Basil's head, otherwise extremely fine/good very fine and scarce.