A well preserved byzantine lead seal in the name of Kosmas hypatos (end of 7th cent.)

(Lead, 14.20 gr, 27.60 mm, 12h). Condition: Extremely Fine. Uncleaned with a nice natural grey patina.

Obv.: Invocative cruciform monogram, resolved as, Θεοτοκε βοηθει = Θεοτόκε βοήθει (Mother of God, help), wreath border.

Rev.: Inscription in 3 lines flanked by two crosses, + / KOC / μαυπ / ατω / + = Κοσμᾶ ὑπάτῳ (Kosmas hypatos, the owner of the seal), wreath border.

The use of dative case in the names on the seals starts at the end of 7th/beginning of the 8th century.