★ Imitating a solidus of Justinian I ★

LOCAL ISSUES, Silk Road Region. Circa 5th-8th centuries. Bracteate (Gold, 18 mm, 0.63 g, 12 h), imitating a solidus of Justinian I from Constantinopolis, after 538. Helmeted, diademed and cuirassed bust facing slightly to right, holding spear in his right hand and shield, decorated with cavalryman on horseback, with his left; around, traces of legend. Rev. Incuse of obverse. Cf. SB 137 (for prototype). Light areas of weakness, otherwise, about extremely fine.

From a collection of coins from Central Asia.