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Auction: 316 - The Collector's Series
Lot: 16

Justinian II, first reign (685-695). Gold Soldius. Constantinople, struck 692-695. 4.49 gms. Facing bust of Christ Pantokrator wearing a pallium over colobium, raising His hand in benediction and holding book of the Gospels, cross behind, rev. Justinian standing facing, crowned and wearing a loros, holding cross potent on two steps and akakia, CONO PA in ex. DOC 8c, S.1249. Near Extremely FineAn important development in Christian iconography, this coin marks the earliest numismatic depiction of Christ. During the early Christian period, it was normal practice to represent Christ only through symbolism. The official view of this matter shifted in 692. In that year, the Quinisext Council (Council in Trullon) was called by the emperor Justinian II to reconcile the differences between Eastern and Western church practices and to help repair the growing schism between Constantinople and Rome. One of the issues debated by the Council was how should Christ be portrayed. The Council ruled that from thereon, He should be depicted in human form. It is not known whether the Council´s ruling directly influenced the striking of this coin, but certainly there is a strong connection. The court at Constantinople was more than likely already predisposed to the portrayal of Christ in human form, and the court´s desire was made manifest in ink and metal.

Estimate
$4,000 to $5,000