Sale: CNG 61, Lot: 2181. Estimate $3000.  Closing Date: Wednesday, 25 September 2002.  Sold For $3250. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

CONSTANTINE IX. 1042-1055. AR Miliaresion (2.41 gm). Constantinople mint. +ÐECPOI NA CWZOIC, the Virgin orans, standing on footstool, wearing pallium and maphorium / EVCEBH MONOMAXON, Constantine standing, in military uniform consisting of cuirass, tunic, cloak and high boots, holding long cross and scabbard containing sword. DOC III 7; SB 1834. Toned EF. ($3000)

The obverse Virgin of this splendid miliaresion is reminiscent of the Virgin Hagiosoritissa relief now at Dumbarton Oaks. This, as well as the celebrated mosaic portraits of Constantine IX and his consort Zoe in Hagia Sophia, vividly demonstrate the high artistic standard the imperial workshop at Constantinople could still achieve in the mid-11th century.