Heraclius and Heraclius Constantine (AD 613-641), with Heraclonas (19mm, 4.49 gm, 5h). AV solidus

Description

Byzantine Empire – Heraclius and Heraclius Constantine, with Heraclonas (AD 613-641) AV Solidus

Issuer: Heraclius and Heraclius Constantine, with Heraclonas
Date: AD 635-636
Mint: Constantinople, 3rd officina
Diameter: 19 mm
Weight: 4.49 g
Die Axis: 5h
Certification: NGC AU 4/5 – 3/5

Obverse:

• Design: Heraclius (center), with long beard and mustache, flanked by Heraclius Constantine (right) and Heraclonas (left), both beardless. Heraclius and Heraclius Constantine are wearing crowns surmounted by crosses, while Heraclonas is uncrowned, wearing a plain cap with a cross above. All three are standing facing, dressed in chlamys, and holding globus crucigers in their right hands.

Reverse:

• Design: Cross potent on three steps; monogram to the left, Θ (date) in right field, CONOB in exergue.
• Inscription: VICTORIA AVϚЧ Γ

References:

• Sear: 759

Condition:

• Grade: NGC AU (About Uncirculated)
• Strike: 4/5
• Surface: 3/5

Historical Context:

Heraclius (610-641):

• Heraclius was a Byzantine Emperor known for his military campaigns against the Sassanid Empire and later the early Islamic Caliphate. His reign marked significant military and administrative reforms.

Heraclius Constantine (Constantine III):

• Son of Heraclius, he co-ruled with his father and succeeded him briefly.

Heraclonas:

• Also a son of Heraclius, Heraclonas was briefly elevated to co-emperor but faced political challenges and was eventually deposed.

Symbolism and Iconography:

• The depiction of the emperors together symbolizes the unity and continuity of the Heraclian dynasty.
• The cross potent and steps on the reverse signify the victory of Christianity and the stability of the empire.

Collectibility:

• This solidus is a valuable artifact from the Byzantine period, reflecting the political and religious themes of the time.
• The coin’s certification by NGC and its grading as AU make it an attractive piece for collectors interested in Byzantine numismatics.

For further information, please call 212 3191077.