★ A splendid Hyperpyron of Michael VIII Palaeologus ★

Michael VIII Palaeologus, 1261-1282. Hyperpyron (Electrum, 28 mm, 4.28 g, 7 h), Constantinopolis. Bust of Virgin Mary, orans, within city walls furnished with six groups of towers. Rev. IC XC / M-I/X/ M/ΔE/C - O/ Π/A/C Emperor kneeling slightly to right, being presented by Archangel Michael to Christ enthroned slightly to left and holding scroll in his left hand. DOC 6. SB 2242. A splendid example, beautifully struck and unusually complete. Minor graffito on the reverse, otherwise, extremely fine.