THEODOSIUS II, RIC 257, Date 430-440 AD, Gold Solidus Constantinople Byzanz, Constantinopolis

★ Near extremely fine condition - nice Theodosius II bust presentation - fantastic details at the Constantinopolis reverse presentation - full legends at booth sides - perfectly centered - full diameter and full weight - lovely gold color toning ★
Imperator Caesar Flavius Theodosius Augustus
Reign: Theodosius II
Mint: Constantinople
Date: 430/440 AD
Nominal: Solidus
Material: Gold
Diameter: 20mm
Weight: 4.50g
Reference: RIC 257
Reference: Depeyrot 81/1
Reference: RIC X Theodosius II (East) 257
OCRE Online: numismatics.org/ocre/id/ric.1...
Obverse: Pearl-diademed, helmeted, cuirassed bust of Theodosius II facing, head slightly right, spear in right hand over shoulder, shield decorated with horseman motif in left
Inscription: D N THEODOSIVS P F AVG
Translation: Dominus Noster Theodosius Pius Felix Augustus
Translation: Our Lord Theodosius, Pious and Blessed August
Reverse: Constantinopolis enthroned left, left foot on prow, globus cruciger in right hand, scepter in left, shield beside; star in right field, mintmark in exergue
Inscription: VOT XXX MVLT XXXX I CONOB
Translation: Votis Tricennalibus, Multis Quadragennalibus, Iota, Constantinopolis Obryzum
Translation: Vows (prayers) for thirty years of rule, many wishes for a fortieth anniversary of the emperors rule, 10th Officina, Constantinople 1/72 pound pure gold
Comment: Theodosius II, known as Flavius Theodosius, was a prominent Roman Emperor who reigned over the Eastern Roman Empire, which would later become the Byzantine Empire, from 408 to 450 AD. His ascent to the throne was unique, as he took on the mantle of leadership at the young age of 7 following the death of his father, Emperor Arcadius. Due to his youth, Theodosius II was placed under the guardianship of various regents during the early years of his reign. What sets Theodosius II apart in history is the remarkable length of his rule, spanning over four decades. Throughout his reign, he heavily relied on the counsel and guidance of advisors and regents, especially during his formative years as a ruler. One of his most enduring contributions was the construction of the famous Theodosian Walls that fortified the city of Constantinople, the Byzantine capital. These formidable defenses played a pivotal role in safeguarding the city from numerous external threats, including barbarian invasions. Theodosius II was a devout Christian, and he actively supported the Nicene Creed, an important doctrine of Christian orthodoxy. He also played a significant role in ecclesiastical matters, such as the convocation of the Council of Ephesus in 431, aimed at addressing theological controversies of the time. His reign also saw the initiation of efforts to compile and organize Roman laws, resulting in the creation of the Theodosian Code. This legal code became a vital source of Roman law for both the Eastern and Western Roman Empires, as well as for medieval Europe. In terms of relations with the Western Roman Empire, Theodosius II had a complex connection with his counterpart, Emperor Honorius. The Western Empire was grappling with internal strife and external threats, notably the Visigothic and Vandal invasions. Theodosius II provided limited assistance to Honorius, reflecting the challenges faced by both empires during this period. Theodosius II's reign came to an unfortunate end in 450 AD due to a riding accident. He was succeeded by Marcian, who was married to Theodosius II's sister Pulcheria. Theodosius II's long and relatively stable rule played a crucial role in preserving the Eastern Roman Empire during a time of considerable external pressures and internal complexities. His legacy endures through his significant contributions to law, fortifications, and the Christian tradition of the Byzantine Empire.

[@AncientCoinStory]

Beautiful detail on strike. One day I will add a gold to the collection.