Constans II, 641-668. Solidus

Constans II. 641–668. Solidus (Gold, 19 mm, 4.33 g, 6 h). Constantinople, 651–654.

Obv. D N CONSTANTINЧS P P AV, crowned and draped bust of Constans II facing, with long beard and moustache, holding globus cruciger in right hand.

Rev. VICTORIA AVGЧ A / CONOB+, cross potent on base and three steps.

DOC 21 var. (unlisted officina); MIB 24; SB 958.

Attractive surfaces, light tone, sharply struck. Extremely fine.

This handsome solidus was struck early in the long reign of Constans II, a pivotal emperor who ruled during one of Byzantium’s most challenging eras. The portrait shows the emperor bearded and solemn, already projecting the stern dignity that characterized his reign. The obverse legend abbreviates his formal title Dominus Noster Constantinus Perpetuus Augustus, while the globus cruciger in his hand signifies divine sanction and universal rule.

The reverse type, depicting a cross potent on three steps, continues the long-standing symbol of imperial victory through Christian faith. The mintmark CONOB confirms production at Constantinople, the primary mint of the empire, while the officina mark “A” identifies the first workshop of issue.

Struck in the decade following the initial Arab conquests, this issue belongs to a period of transition when the Byzantine Empire was adapting politically, economically, and ideologically to the loss of its eastern provinces. Despite these pressures, the continued production of the solidus in high purity gold testified to the enduring stability and prestige of the imperial monetary system.

A finely executed and historically resonant coin, emblematic of the resilience and continuity of the Byzantine state under Constans II.