Byzantine Empire, Justinian I, ‘the Great’, (527-565), AV Tremissis, Constantinople,

Description

**Byzantine Empire, Justinian I, ‘the Great’ (527-565)**
**AV Tremissis**
**Mint:** Constantinople
**Weight:** 1.42g

**Obverse:**
– **Legend:** D N IVSTINIANVS P P AVI
– **Design:** Pear-diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust of Justinian I facing right.
– **Details:** The emperor is portrayed with a pear-shaped diadem, which signifies his imperial authority. His draped and armored attire emphasizes his role as both a ruler and a military leader.

**Reverse:**
– **Legend:** VICTORIA AVGVSTORVM
– **Design:** Victory advancing right, her head turned to the left, holding a wreath in her right hand and a globus cruciger in her left.
– **Details:** The depiction of Victory symbolizes the divine favor and triumph of the empire. The star to the right of Victory adds a celestial element, while the globus cruciger represents Christ’s sovereignty over the world.

**Mintmark:**
– **CONOB** (Constantinople).

**Condition:**
– **Characteristics:** Somewhat beaten flan, split to the edge, worn to legend. Otherwise, the coin is in fine to good fine condition.

**Historical Context:**
Justinian I, also known as Justinian the Great, was a pivotal Byzantine emperor known for his ambitious reforms and military conquests. His reign marked a significant era in Byzantine history, characterized by efforts to restore the Roman Empire’s former glory. The tremissis, a small denomination of gold coin, was widely used throughout the empire and reflects the economic and administrative changes implemented by Justinian.

**Provenance:**
From the Collection of Dr Tony Abramson.