Lot 3376
Nicephorus I, Gold Solidus (3.78g). 802-811. Syracuse, circa AD 802/3. ΛΛI-FOLOS (sic) bAS, crowned facing bust of Nicephorus, wearing chlamys pinned at right shoulder, holding cross potent in right hand and akakia in left Reverse: IhSUS XRIS-TUS NICA X, cross potent on base and three steps, flanked by C-I. Sear --. DOC --. Apparently unrecorded in any standard reference; for similar examples see CNG 105, lot 1056, Nomos 12, lot 240; NAC 75, lot 696 (all from same dies). Extremely rare. A superb example, fully struck and possessing complete legends, with just a hint of toning around crisp devices. Mint State. Estimate Value $5,000 - UP
The former "general logothete" (chief treasurer), Nicephorus I achieved power following a coup by imperial ministers that toppled the Empress Irene. He had his hands full, as Irene's chaotic reign had weakened the army and placed the Empire's frontiers in grave danger. Militarily his record was mixed; although he easily defeated several formidale pretenders to the throne, against the Arabs he suffered heavy defeats and was forced to buy them off with tribute of 50,000 gold solidi per year. Though hard-pressed in the West, the Byzantines retained control of the mint of Syracuse in Sicily, where this rare and remarkable solidus was produced early in his reign. His life and regime came to grief at the disastrous battle of Pliska against the Bulgarians in 811, after which the Bulgarian Khan Krum had the skull of Nicephorus made into a drinking cup.
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| Realized $3,840 |
