Sale: CNG 63, Lot: 1675. Estimate $1000.  Closing Date: Wednesday, 21 May 2003.  Sold For $1050. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

THEODORA. 1055-1056. AV Histamenon Nomisma (4.40 gm). Constantinople mint. Christ standing facing on footstool / Theodora and Mary standing facing, holding labarum between them; pellet and triangle on labarum shaft. DOC III 1b; SB 1837. Good VF. ($1000)

Theodora was the sole surviving member of the Macedonian dynasty founded by Basil I, and ruled as empress in her own right for over a year after the death of Constantine IX. The elderly Theodora ruled with a firm hand, in stark contrast to the weak non-entities that preceded and followed her.