Constans II (Constantine), Copper, Half Follis, Syracuse, 663/664
Obverse
At left, frontal bust of Constans II with long beard. At right, frontal bust of Constantine IV, beardless. Each wears chlamys and crown with cross. No inscription.
Reverse
with ||N in left field and N|O|Z in right field.
Obverse
At left, frontal bust of Constans II with long beard. At right, frontal bust of Constantine IV, beardless. Each wears chlamys and crown with cross. No inscription.
Reverse
with ||N in left field and N|O|Z in right field.
| Accession number | BZC.2005.23 |
|---|---|
| Ruler | Constans II (Constantine) |
| Date of Reign | 641–668 |
| Associated Authority | Constantine IV |
| Metal | Copper |
| Denomination | Half Follis |
| Mint | Syracuse |
| Date | 663/664 |
| Diameter | 17.0 mm |
| Weight | 1.67 g |
| Relation of Dies | 12:00 |
| Shape | Flat |
Acquisition History
From Simon Bendall
Commentary
Contrary to Grierson’s opinion (DOC 2.2:416) that the combined with the date given in right field might refer to regnal years, Bendall has shown (“La datation des monnaies de bronze de Constant II à Syracuse,” 834–35) that these are indictional years. Thus there is no need to move back the date on which the long-bearded image of Constans II was introduced.
Cf. DOC 2.2:499, no. 184 (similar, but with Δ).
MIB 3:253, no. 213 (second specimen).
S. Bendall, “A New Sicilian Half Follis of Constans II,” 38–40, fig. 7 (republishing in English his note in “La datation” [see above]).