430-440 AD Roman Empire Theodosius II Gold Solidus Constantinople ANACS About Uncirculated 58

The gold solidus of Theodosius II ranks among the most historically significant coins of late antiquity, struck during the reign of the emperor who presided over the Eastern Roman Empire at the height of its early Byzantine transition. Theodosius II ruled from 402 to 450 AD, codified Roman law in the Codex Theodosianus, and oversaw a Constantinople that had become the undisputed capital of a Christian empire. This solidus, struck at the Constantinople mint between 430 and 440 AD, represents the pinnacle of late Roman gold coinage in both artistry and monetary importance. The current example is FAR nicer than most we encounter and appears conservatively graded given the bold strike and fantastic detail and centering on both sides.  This is known to be an issue that comes very weakly struck, which is not the case with the present coin.

The obverse presents a helmeted, cuirassed bust of Theodosius II facing three-quarters right, holding a spear and shield, with the legend DN THEODO-SIVS PF AVG surrounding the portrait in bold, legible lettering. The craftsmanship is confident and characteristic of the Constantinople mint, with well-defined facial features and strong device relief. The reverse depicts a seated helmeted figure of Constantinople enthroned, holding a cross-topped globe and a scepter, resting one foot on a ship's prow, with the mint mark CONOB in the exergue - the standard guarantor of full-weight refined gold throughout the late Roman world.

ANACS has certified this solidus About Uncirculated 58, reflecting only the lightest traces of wear on the highest points of the design with substantial original luster remaining across the rich golden surfaces. The Constantinople solidus of Theodosius II is perennially sought by collectors of late Roman and early Byzantine gold, and a certified AU example of this quality and legibility is a genuinely appealing acquisition. For those building a serious collection of late Roman imperial gold, this coin offers strong eye appeal and solid provenance through third-party certification. The coin pictured is the exact coin you will receive.

For questions about this coin or to confirm availability and pricing, call us at 800-928-6468.