A Byzantine Gold Solidus of Exceptional Preservation

A Legendary Coin of Ancient Glory and Historical Legacy

From the globally admired world of Byzantine coinage comes this outstanding example — a gold solidus struck during the reign of Anastasius I, featuring superb strike quality and remarkable historical significance.

■ Design

Obverse:
Portrait of Emperor Anastasius I in military attire
Inscription: DN ANASTASIVS PP AVG
(Translation: “Our Lord Anastasius, Perpetual Augustus”)

Reverse:
Victory standing, holding a long jeweled cross
Inscription: VICTORIA AVGGG, with CONOB beneath

• “CONOB” identifies the coin as pure gold from the Constantinople mint, the only Byzantine mint authorized to issue gold coinage during this era.

■ Grade

MS (Mint State)
Strike: 5/5 — Highest possible grade
Surface: 2/5
NGC Certification Link

■ Coin Details

• Date: AD 491–518

• Issuer: Byzantine Empire (Eastern Roman Empire)

• Denomination: Solidus

• Metal: Gold

• Weight: 4.47 g

• Diameter: Approximately 21 mm

• Obverse: Emperor Anastasius I

• Reverse: Victory holding a cross

• Grading Authority: NGC

• Grade: MS, Strike 5/5, Surface 2/5

■ Rarity

Although solidi were widely circulated across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East for over 700 years, early Byzantine solidi like this one — especially from the reign of Anastasius I (AD 491–518) — are far rarer in Mint State condition.

This coin has achieved a perfect strike grade of 5/5, an indication of its exceptional die quality and minting precision, making it an elite piece even among ancient gold coins.

Its survival in such high condition after more than 1,600 years makes this piece a true numismatic treasure and a valuable historical document.

■ Condition

• Strike: 5/5 — crisp, bold, and fully detailed

• Surface: 2/5 — stable patina with minimal wear

• Graded MS (Mint State) — rare for coins of this age and era

The imperial bust on the obverse and the figure of Victory on the reverse remain sharply rendered, preserving the stylistic and artistic brilliance of early Byzantine coinage. The overall presentation of this solidus far exceeds what is typically seen in coins from the early sixth century.

■ Historical and Cultural Significance

The solidus was introduced by Constantine the Great around AD 310 and went on to become the dominant gold currency of the ancient and medieval world, circulating with unwavering stability for over seven centuries.

Its reputation for consistent weight and purity made it the “dollar of the Middle Ages,” used for taxation, military pay, diplomacy, and international trade. In fact, the word “soldier” is thought by some historians to derive from solidus, highlighting its foundational role in the empire’s economic and military structure.

This particular coin was struck during the reign of Anastasius I, who is credited with restoring fiscal discipline and laying the foundation for Byzantium’s future prosperity. The imagery on this coin represents both imperial authority and spiritual symbolism, as the figure of Victory holding the cross reflects the merging of Roman traditions and emerging Christian ideology — a hallmark of the Byzantine transition from antiquity to the Middle Ages.

■ Market Appeal

Byzantine coins are renowned worldwide for their blend of elegant design, deep historical context, and enduring value. Among them, the solidus stands at the pinnacle — admired for its purity, beauty, and utility.

Coins from Anastasius I’s reign, especially those with a perfect strike grade, are highly desirable for collectors, historians, and investors alike.
Interest in ancient gold coins has risen sharply in recent years, fueled by their intrinsic value, historical significance, and global appeal. Well-preserved examples such as this are becoming increasingly difficult to acquire.

■ Final Assessment

This solidus is more than a collector’s item — it is a living testament to the resilience of a civilization and its place in world history.
With a flawless strike and deeply symbolic imagery, it is a standout artifact of the early Byzantine Empire and a powerful representation of imperial identity, artistic transition, and economic stability.

For collectors and investors seeking a piece that combines historical importance, aesthetic brilliance, and market strength, this solidus is a compelling and enduring acquisition.