Solidus - Zeno VICTORIA AVGGG, Constantinopolis

Historical Context: This Solidus was issued during the reign of Zeno (476-491 CE), a pivotal period for the Eastern Roman Empire following the deposition of the last Western Roman Emperor, Romulus Augustulus, in 476 CE. Zeno, ruling from Constantinopolis, faced significant internal strife and external threats, particularly from the Ostrogoths. The coin's legend, VICTORIA AVGGG (Victory of the Augusti), served as a powerful declaration of imperial strength and continuity, asserting the enduring authority of the Eastern Roman state amidst the collapse of its western counterpart.

Artistry: While specific engravers are unknown, the coin exemplifies the late Roman imperial stylistic school prevalent in Constantinopolis. The obverse features a highly stylized, frontal bust of Zeno, typically helmeted and cuirassed, conveying imperial majesty rather than naturalistic portraiture. The reverse depicts Victory standing left, holding a long cross and a globus cruciger, a potent symbol of Christian imperial triumph. This iconography, combined with the mintmark CONOB, reflects the blend of classical Roman and emerging Christian Byzantine aesthetic principles.

Technical/Grading: Struck in 4.55 grams of gold and measuring 21 mm, this Solidus typically exhibits a high-quality strike. Key high-points for grading include the details of Zeno's helmet and cuirass on the obverse, and Victory's head, wings, and the full cross on the reverse. Well-centered examples will display complete legends and mintmarks. The planchet quality is generally excellent, reflecting the careful production standards for this crucial denomination, ensuring sharp details and a full, even strike across the design fields.