Theodosius II, 402-450.

Solidus 416 or 418, Constantinople. D N THEODO-SIVS P F AVG Facing consular bust of Theodosius II, holding mappa in right hand and sceptre in left hand / SECVRITAS RE-IPVBLICAE The emperor, seated, holding mappa in right hand and sceptre in left hand. Star in left field. CONOB in exergue. 4,48g. Cf. RIC 208 (bust left); cf. DO 347 (bust left).

Unique. A numismatic and iconographic document of the highest importance. Superb specimen.

Provenance:
NGSA Auction II (18 November 2002), 142.

This gold coin, atypical in its quality and style, is the only one of this type known to date. Theodosius is depicted dressed as a consul. As the legends do not provide any details, it is impossible to determine the exact date of issue: the seventh or eighth consulate, i.e. 416 or 418 AD. Both obverse and reverse show the richness of the consular costume. The diadem is reminiscent of the finest Byzantine ivories. Instead of the traditional “scipio” (eagle-ended sceptre), a cross-ended sceptre was chosen for this commemorative issue. The emperor also holds the “mappa”, the roll of cloth that was thrown into the arena to mark the start of the games. Such a depiction of the emperor makes this coin an exceptional testimony to the end of the Roman Empire.