BYZANTINE EMPIRE: Justinian II, First reign, 685-695, AV solidus (4.34g), Constantinople, S-1248, bust of Christ Pantocrator facing; cross behind // Emperor standing facing, wearing crown and loros, holding cross potent set on two steps, and akakia; minor reverse die cracks, clipped, lovely lustrous surfaces, strike: 5/5; surface: 3/5, NGC graded Choice AU (clipped)

ex Triskeles Sale 29, Lot 321

This coin is most notable for being the first coin type to depict Jesus Christ, and was a direct result of the Trullan Synod, called by Justinian in 692. Canon 82 of the Synod made allowance for representing Christ in His human guise rather than symbolically as had been done hitherto.

Estimate: USD 3800 - 4000