313, Lot: 498. Estimate $100. Sold for $60. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

Michael VIII Palaeologus. 1261-1282. Æ Trachy (28mm, 3.82 g, 6h). Constantinople mint. The Virgin Hagiosoritissa standing right orans / Michael and St. George standing facing, holding labarum between them. DOC 64-5; PCPC 25; SB 2264. Near VF, chipped green patina.

From the Iconodule Collection.

The Virgin Hagiosoritissa (“of the holy soros” [reliquary chest]) was an iconographic type showing Mary in profile with both hands extended in prayer. It probably reflects an icon from a chapel in the church of the Blachernai Monastery in Constantinople.