1073137 | BYZANTINE. Justinian II. (Emperor, first reign, 685-695 AD). Struck 668-685 AD. AV Solidus. NGC MS (Mint State) Strike 3/5 Surface 4/5. Constantinople. 4.47gm. d N IhS ChS REX RGNANTIXM. Bust of Christ facing, raising hand in benediction and holding Gospels, cross behind head / Crowned facing bust of Justinian II, wearing holding cross potent on two steps and an akakia. DOC 7; Sear 1248.

Officina illegible on this piece


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The akakia (literally, "against wickedness") was a cylindrical purple silk roll containing dust which is depicted in wall mosaics and on coinage as being held by Byzantine emperors during ceremonies. It symbolized the mortal nature of all men. It possibly developed from the mappa, the cloth used by the Roman consuls to start the races at the hippodrome. .