★ Ex Numismatik Naumann, Auction 75 ★

Theodosius II AD 402-450. Struck late AD 425-429. Constantinople, 8th officina
Solidus AV

22 mm, 4,46 g

D N THEODOSIVS P F AVG, pearl-diademed, helmeted and cuirassed bust facing slightly to right, holding spear and shield decorated with horseman motif / SALVS REIPVBLICAE H, Theodosius II and Valentinian III enthroned facing, each holding mappa; star above, CONOB in exergue.

nearly mint state

RIC X 237; Depeyrot 79/1; DOCLR 374; MIRB 23.

Ex Numismatik Naumann, Auction 75, 3 March 2019, lot 731.

Theodosius II, who reigned as Eastern Roman Emperor from AD 402 to AD 450, is known for his long and stable rule, during which he faced a mix of military challenges and significant internal reforms. Coins struck between AD 425 and 429 reflect his position as a powerful and divinely sanctioned ruler. During this period, Theodosius was focusing on consolidating his control over the Eastern Roman Empire, implementing legal reforms, and defending against external threats, such as the Huns and Sassanids. The coins minted during this time, particularly gold solidii and bronze folles, typically feature a portrait of Theodosius II on the obverse. He is often depicted wearing imperial regalia, such as a diadem and a cuirass (armor), symbolizing his authority and military preparedness. The inscription on the obverse usually reads "DN THEODOSIVS P F AVG" ("Dominus Noster Theodosius Pius Felix Augustus"), affirming his status as a pious and successful emperor. On the reverse, common imagery includes Victory holding a cross or a globe, representing divine favor and the emperor's control over the world. In some issues, the reverse shows Theodosius standing or seated on a throne, holding a cross or spear, with inscriptions like "VICTORIA AVGGG" (Victory of the emperors) or "SALVS REIPVBLICAE" (Salvation of the Republic), further emphasizing the stability and protection of the empire under his rule. Theodosius II is particularly known for commissioning the Theodosian Walls of Constantinople and the codification of Roman law through the "Codex Theodosianus", a comprehensive legal code that became one of his greatest legacies. His coinage from this period reflects his reign as a stable, devout, and powerful emperor, focused on both the defense and administration of his empire during a time of external pressures and internal reform.