Miliaresion - Nikephoros II Phokas Constantinopolis
| Issuer | Byzantine Empire |
|---|---|
| Year | 963-969 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Miliaresion (1⁄12) |
| Currency | Second Solidus Nomisma (720-1092) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | |
| Diameter | 24 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | BCV#1781 |
| Obverse description | In the centre is the bust of Nikephoros II in a cross shaped frame. Nikephoros is crowned and wearing loros. He is flanked by inscriptions on both sides. Cross shaped frame has little crosses on each side, which creates one bigger cross. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering |
☩ IҺSЧS XRISTЧS NICA NICF (Translation: Jesus Christ conquers Nikephoros) |
| Reverse description | Text on five lines bordered with crosses on up and down. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering |
- ·:· - ☩Nichp ЄҺ X·ω AVTO CRAT ЄVSЄЬ ЬASILЄVS RωMAIω - ·:· - (Translation: Nikephoros, by the Grace of God, Autocrator and Pious King of the Romans.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (963-969) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1191504630 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: The Miliaresion of Nikephoros II Phokas (963-969 AD), BCV#1781, marks a zenith of Byzantine military power under the Macedonian Dynasty. Nikephoros, a renowned general, ascended the throne during significant territorial reconquests, including Crete, Cilicia, and Antioch from Arab control. Struck in Constantinopolis, this silver denomination was vital for military finance and large transactions, symbolizing the empire's renewed economic and martial strength in the East.
Artistry: This Miliaresion exemplifies the distinctive numismatic artistry of the mid-Byzantine period. While specific engravers are unrecorded, the style is characteristic of the imperial mint at Constantinopolis. The obverse typically features a bust of Christ Pantocrator, rendered with solemn, stylized grandeur. The reverse invariably displays a cross potent on a globe, often with a five-line inscription laudatory to the emperor. This blend of imperial and sacred iconography underscores the Byzantine concept of divinely sanctioned rule.
Technical/Grading: Critical grading points for this type include the clarity of Christ’s facial features, hair, and the Gospels on the obverse. On the reverse, the sharpness of the cross potent, particularly its serifs and central globule, is paramount. Legibility of the five-line inscription, frequently weakly struck or off-center, significantly impacts grade. Well-centered strikes with full legends and minimal planchet flaws are highly prized, as is the preservation of relief on highest points like Christ’s nose and the cross arms.