1059-1067 AD Ancient Byzantine Gold Histamenon of Constantine X NGC Choice AU

Exceptional Portrait of Jesus from 954 Years Ago

Struck by hand, no two coins from the days of the Byzantine Empire are alike. But if they were, they’d want to look like these exceptional, ancient, Histamenon Nomisma gold coins! Minted between 1059 and 1067, these coins feature a portrait of Jesus wearing a “cross numbus”, a cross within a halo, raising his right hand in benediction as he holds a book of gospels in his left hand on the obverse. On the reverse is an equally clear image of Constantine X, who was named Emperor in 1059 by the ailing Emperor Isaac I Komnenos.

Byzantine “Trial” Coins That Didn’t Catch On

Histamenon Nomismas were trial coins as the Byzantines attempted to begin currency reform, replacing the Solidus. The experiment failed, but fortunately left us these with the portrait of Christ, making an important contribution to both the history of the Empire and the part that Christianity played in daily life.

Amazing Coins Of High Quality

It’s simply amazing to have coins of this quality from at least 954 years ago, with so much important history attached to them. Each coin available here has been graded by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) as being in Choice About Uncirculated (CH AU) condition with a Strike 5/5 and a Surface 4/5 — nearly unimaginable for coins of this age! The notation of “brushed” is because NGC found upon inspection under magnification that there is some evidence of cleaning. Don’t wait. It’s now or never for these.