Sale: CNG 61, Lot: 2238. Estimate $300.  Closing Date: Wednesday, 25 September 2002.  Sold For $350. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

HERACLIUS. 610-641 AD. AR Half Siliqua (0.64 gm). Carthage mint. D. N. ERACLIO PP AV, crowned facing bust / Crowned busts of Heraclius Constantine and Martina. DOC II 233; SB 871. Nice VF, toned. ($300)

Heraclius married his niece Martina after the death of his first wife in 614. The marriage was condemned by the church, the populace of Constantinople, and the emperor's own family. Nevertheless, Martina remained at her husband's side during his campaigns against the Persians and Arabs, and upon his death her son Heraclonas joined Heraclius Constantine as joint emperor in 641. Martina was accused of poisoning Heraclius Constantine after his death four months later, and she and Heraclonas were deposed in favor of the son of Heraclius Constantine, Constans.