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Constans II (Constantine), Copper, Half Follis, Constantinople, 659/660

 
 

Obverse

Helmeted frontal bust of Constans II with long beard. Globus cruciger in right hand.

Symbol

K in right field.

Reverse

with cross above, |N|N| in left field, in right field, and B below.

Obverse

Helmeted frontal bust of Constans II with long beard. Globus cruciger in right hand.

Symbol

K in right field.

Reverse

with cross above, |N|N| in left field, in right field, and B below.

Accession number BZC.1972.44
Ruler Constans II (Constantine)
Date of Reign 641–668
Metal Copper
Denomination Half Follis
Mint Constantinople
Date 659/660
Diameter 17.0 mm
Weight 2.6 g
Relation of Dies 6:00
Shape Flat

Commentary

On the coin's obverse, there is a trace of double striking. There are no coins of this type in DOC. The related obverse of DOC 2.2:463–67, Class 6 (undated), shows Constans II wearing a crown with cross. The NN shows contamination with the N|NE of Class 6, which Grierson ascribes to the 660s to make them contemporary with similar decanummia dated years 2024 (660/661–664/665). It looks as if the decanummia may be several classes.

MIB 3:251, no. 184.

 

Acquisition History

From J. Schulman, list 203, no. 636, 5 December 1972