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Leon. Imperial spatharios and droungarios of the Imperial Vigla. PB Seal (28mm, 17.79 g, 12h). Circa late 8th century. ΘEOTOKE BOHΘEI in the form of a cruciform monogram; Tω Δ(OV)/Λω C(OV) in quarters / + ΛЄON/ TI BACIΛIK/ ΠAΘAP XS/ Δ(OV)ΓΓAP XT´/ ΘЄOΦV B´/ CIΛIK ACI/ [...] in seven lines. BLS 2144. Tan and earthen patina, chipped. VF. Extremely rare.
From the Libertas Collection.
A captivating seal, known from only two other examples. Belonging to Leo, this seal identifies the owner as an imperial spatharios (bodyguard to the emperor) and droungarios (a military rank referring to the commander of a droungos – a unit of approximately 1000 to 3000 soldiers). In addition to these titles, this Leo was not only a droungarios, but specifically the droungarios of the Imperial Vigla. The droungarios of the Vigla (or Watch) was the commander of the unit responsible for guarding the emperor while on campaign, making this as highly important unit and command. While by this time the title spatharios was often given out as an honorific, this Leo, as evidenced by his prestigious command, was clearly a true spatharios in the original intent of the word. And not only was Leo a true imperial bodyguard, but the commander of the Imperial Vigla itself.
Closing Date and Time: 15 November 2023 at 13:47:40 ET.
All winning bids are subject to a 20% buyer’s fee.
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