CNG 103, Lot: 937. Estimate $1500. Sold for $3250. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

Justinian II, with Tiberius. Second reign, 705-711. AV Solidus (20mm, 4.46 g, 6h). Constantinople mint. Facing bust of Christ Pantokrator / Crowned and draped facing busts of Justinian and Tiberius, holding between them a cross potent set on two steps . DOC 2b; MIB 2b; SB 1415. EF, areas of minor weakness.

The portrait of Christ on Justinian’s second-reign solidi differs significantly from that which appeared on those of his first reign. The depiction of Christ during Justinian’s first reign followed an established iconographic tradition. The second portrait type, however, is more precise, and lacking the flowing hair and long beard of the earlier version. It is stylistically similar in appearance to then-current imperial portraits, and my represent a more novel interpretation of the association between the Church and the emperor.