Sale: CNG 60, Lot: 1986. Estimate $300.  Closing Date: Wednesday, 22 May 2002.  Sold For $300. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

JUSTIN II. 565-578 AD. AV Solidus (4.46 gm). Struck 565-566 AD. Constantinople mint. Helmeted and cuirassed bust FACING, holding Victory on globe and shield decorated with horseman spearing a fallen enemy; Justin is bearded / Constantinopolis enthroned facing, holding sceptre and globus cruciger; Q /CONOB. DOC I 3var. (unlisted officina); SB 344. EF. ($300)

On occasion the normal clean shaven Justin is shown with a slight beard on his solidi. This has been taken to indicate a mourning beard, a Roman custom to show respect for the recently deceased. Not all authorities accept tthat these were the first issues of Justin after the death of his uncle Justinian.