Catalog
| Issuer | Byzantine Empire (Byzantine states) |
|---|---|
| Year | 1042-1055 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Miliaresion (1⁄12) |
| Currency | Second Solidus Nomisma (720-1092) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 2.72 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered (scyphate) |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | BCV#1834 , DOC III-2#7a , BN#1 |
| Obverse description | Holy Nimbate Virgin with arms outstretched and lettering around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Greek |
| Obverse lettering | MHP-ΘV. R +AECMOI NA CWZOIC |
| Reverse description | Emperor Standing facing, in military dress with long cross and sword |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | EVCEBH MONOMAXON |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1042-1055) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1966182290 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This AR miliaresion was issued during Constantine IX Monomachos's reign (1042-1055), a pivotal period for the Byzantine Empire. His rule saw military decline and political instability, despite a brief cultural resurgence. Economic pressures led to silver coinage debasement. The Great Schism of 1054 also occurred, underscoring the era's profound transformations and challenges.
Artistry: The coin's design adheres to established mid-Byzantine imperial iconography. The obverse typically features a bust of Christ Pantocrator or Christ enthroned, embodying divine authority. The reverse depicts Emperor Constantine IX, often standing or as a bust, holding imperial regalia like a globus cruciger and scepter, asserting his earthly sovereignty. The style reflects imperial mint workshops, prioritizing symbolic clarity over intricate realism, typical for silver issues of this period.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this miliaresion weighs 2.72 grams, indicative of ongoing debasement in 11th-century Byzantine silver currency. High-points susceptible to wear include Christ's facial features and drapery, and the emperor's crown, face, and attributes. Byzantine silver coins of this era frequently exhibit irregular flans, minor off-centering, and areas of weak strike, particularly on legends or peripheral details. The lighter weight suggests a thinner planchet, contributing to striking inconsistencies and affecting detail preservation.