Hyperpyron - Theodore II Laskaris Nicaea
| Uitgever | Empire of Nicaea (Byzantine states) |
|---|---|
| Jaar | 1254-1258 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Waarde | Hyperpyron (1) |
| Valuta | First Hyperpyron Nomisma (1092-cca. 1300) |
| Samenstelling | Gold |
| Gewicht | 4.32 g |
| Diameter | 25 mm |
| Dikte | |
| Vorm | Round (irregular) |
| Techniek | Hammered (scyphate) |
| Oriëntatie | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Graveur(s) | |
| In omloop tot | |
| Referentie(s) | BCV#2136 , DOC IV-2#1a,b, 2a |
| Beschrijving voorzijde | Christ enthroned facing, with lettering and symbols. |
|---|---|
| Schrift voorzijde | Greek |
| Opschrift voorzijde |
IC-XC (Translation: Jesus Christ) |
| Beschrijving keerzijde | Emperor Theodore standing facing, holding labarum and anexikakia, being crowned by Mary on the right. |
| Schrift keerzijde | Greek |
| Opschrift keerzijde |
ΘΕωΔΟΡΟC ΔΕC ΔȣΚ Ο ΛΑC (Translation: Lord Theodore Doukas Laskaris) |
| Rand | |
| Muntplaats | |
| Oplage |
ND (1254-1258) - A to Left - ND (1254-1258) - B to right - ND (1254-1258) - Gamma flanking on either side - |
| Numisquare-ID | 1736419530 |
| Aanvullende informatie |
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Historical Context: This Hyperpyron was issued by Theodore II Laskaris, Emperor of Nicaea, between 1254 and 1258. Theodore II inherited a strong successor state established after the Fourth Crusade, dedicated to reclaiming Constantinople and restoring the Byzantine Empire. His reign consolidated Nicaean power, expanded territories, and fostered intellectual culture. This coinage thus symbolizes Nicaea's legitimate claim to the Byzantine legacy and its ambition to reunite the fragmented empire, laying crucial groundwork for the eventual reconquest.
Artistry: While specific engravers are not identifiable, this coin exemplifies the distinct Nicaean Byzantine stylistic school. The design typically features Christ enthroned on the obverse, often as Pantokrator, holding the Gospel. The reverse commonly portrays Emperor Theodore II Laskaris standing or kneeling before a patron saint, frequently the Virgin Mary or Saint Theodore. Figures are rendered with characteristic Byzantine elongation and frontality, emphasizing spiritual authority and imperial piety rather than naturalistic representation.
Technical/Grading: This gold hyperpyron, weighing 4.32 grams and measuring 25 millimeters, adheres to the period's established metrology. High-points for wear or strike quality include Christ's facial features, halo, and garment folds on the obverse; on the reverse, the emperor's crown, facial details, and the saint's attributes. Byzantine hyperpyra frequently exhibit irregularities like off-center strikes, irregular flan shapes, and weak strike areas due to manual minting. The gold alloy, often electrum, could vary in purity, affecting luster and malleability.