1085707 | BYZANTINE. Justinian II. (Emperor, first reign, 685-695 AD). Struck 668-685 AD. AV Solidus. NGC MS (Mint State) Strike 4/5 Surface 5/5. Constantinople, 4th officina. 4.45gm. d N IhS ChS REX RGNANTIXM. Bust of Christ facing, raising hand in benediction and holding Gospels, cross behind head / D IVStINI – AN – YS SERY ChRIStI. Crowned facing bust of Justinian II, wearing loros and holding cross potent on three steps in his right hand and a patriarchal cross on a globe inscribed PAX in his left. DOC 7; Sear 1248; MIB 8a;.


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Coins of this type are known for having some of the first depictions of Christ in this pictorial format. Scholars debate whether they represent a reproduction of the image of Christ from the apse of the Chrysotriclinos, the ceremonial hall of the Great Palace in Constantinople. [See: J. D. Breckenridge, "Christ on the Lyre-Backed Throne" in the Dumbarton Oaks Papers 34/35 (1980/1981), pp. 247-260, esp. p. 257.]
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