★ An attractive solidus of Nicephorus II Phocas ★

Nicephorus II Phocas, 963-969. Solidus (Gold, 20 mm, 4.35 g, 6 h), Constantinopolis. +IҺS XPS RЄX RЄςNANTInm Nimbate bust of Christ facing, wearing tunic and pallium, raising his right hand in benediction and holding book of Gospels in his left. Rev. +ΘЄOTOC b HΘ ҺICHF δЄSP Half-length figure of the Virgin Mary facing on the left, nimbate and flanked by Μ - Θ; on the right, half-length figure of Nicephorus II, wearing loros and crown surmounted by cross; both holding between them patriarchal cross. DOC 4. SB 1778. Slightly clipped and with light doubling on the reverse, otherwise, good very fine.