Emperor or eparch (sixth or early seventh century)
Obverse
Bust of a bearded figure holding a mappa in his right hand. To right: Ε. Traces of circular inscription at left. No visible border.
Reverse
A large Φ in the center, but otherwise blank. No visible border.
Obverse
Bust of a bearded figure holding a mappa in his right hand. To right: Ε. Traces of circular inscription at left. No visible border.
Reverse
A large Φ in the center, but otherwise blank. No visible border.
| Accession number | BZS.1955.1.4251 |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 24.0 mm |
| Condition | Chipped. |
Commentary
The identification of the portrait is uncertain. The mappa could identify the figure as an eparch or an emperor as consul (cf. consular issues of Tiberius II, in 579, and Phokas, in 603: DOC 1:266, no. 2, and DOC 2.1:153, no. 3.1). The figure’s beard excludes Tiberius II and any other sixth-century emperors, who are depicted on coins and seals as beardless.