Constantine V with Leo IV, AE Follis, Syracuse Mint, 741-775 AD

Constantine V with Leo IV, AE Follis (bronze, 2.15g, 18.1mm), Syracuse Mint, 741-775 AD

Obv: Half-length facing figures of Constantine and Leo IV, each wearing crown and chlamys, and holding akakia; cross in field between

Rev: Crowned facing bust of Leo III, wearing chlamys, holding cross potent

Ref: DOC 19; SB 1569

Rarity/Choice: Common, VF (lovely nice dark brown patina)

Note: Constantine V, known as Constantine Copronymus, ruled during a period of iconoclasm, where the veneration of religious icons was opposed. His reign was marked by religious controversies and conflicts with iconophile factions. Leo IV, his son and co-emperor, succeeded him and continued his policies. Despite his short reign, Leo IV faced challenges from iconophiles and military threats from the Abbasid Caliphate. The coin's depiction of multiple rulers reflects the Byzantine tradition of joint rule, where emperors would often share power with co-emperors or heirs, ensuring a smooth succession and stability within the empire. This coin highlights the decentralized nature of Byzantine coin production, with mints operating throughout the empire to meet the currency needs of different regions.