A Globally Coveted Byzantine Coin!
Rarity and artistry—two shining qualities embodied in this precious solidus gold coin of Emperor Phocas.

From the highly regarded world of Byzantine coins, known for their refined artistry, this piece stands out for its market appeal and exceptional rarity.

Design

• Obverse: Portrait of Emperor Phocas

• Reverse: Angel holding a scepter in the right hand and a cross in the left, with the inscription “CONOB” at the bottom
  (Note: Although the Byzantine Empire had several mints, only Constantinople produced gold coins. “CONOB” stands for pure gold struck at Constantinople.)

Condition

Graded AU (About Uncirculated)

• Strike: 4/5

• Surface: 2/5

Coin Details

• Years of Issue: 602–610 CE

• Issuing Authority: Byzantine Empire (Eastern Roman Empire)

• Denomination: Solidus

• Material: Gold

• Weight: 4.46g

• Obverse: Portrait of Emperor Phocas

• Reverse: Angel with scepter and cross, inscription "CONOB"

• NGC Grade: AU (Strike: 4/5, Surface: 2/5)

• NGC Certification Page: https://www.ngccoin.com/certlookup/6710590-004/NGCAncients/

Highlights

★ Rarity
Although gold coins from this era have survived in quantity, high-grade specimens remain rare, especially for such a turbulent period.
Coins of Phocas I are notoriously scarce in the market, as collectors tend to hold onto them tightly.

★ Condition

• Strike: 4/5 – Excellent detail

• Surface: 2/5 – With some wear, but still visually appealing

• Grade: AU (About Uncirculated)

This piece retains crisp details and impressive shine, particularly in the facial features and garment folds of the emperor and the angel.
It is truly remarkable for a coin that has survived over 1,400 years.

★ Historical & Market Value
Phocas I was a controversial figure in Byzantine history. A military man who overthrew Emperor Maurice, he ruled through brutality and political instability, eventually being deposed and executed by Heraclius.
Despite his reputation as a tyrant, the coins issued during his short 8-year reign have immense historical value, as they represent a time of imperial transition and political upheaval.

The solidus was one of the most trusted gold currencies in the ancient world, circulating widely for centuries with consistent purity.
On this coin, the emperor’s portrait on the obverse and the angel on the reverse symbolize not only authority and divine sanction but also Phocas’ attempt to assert legitimacy amidst chaos.

Because of his brief reign, coins of Phocas were produced for a limited time, and well-preserved examples like this are particularly sought after by collectors.

Artistic and Collectible Appeal

Byzantine coins are beloved worldwide for their elegant craftsmanship and rich history.
Their spiritual symbolism, precise engraving, and connection to some of the most significant events in medieval history give them a unique presence in the world of numismatics.

Many collectors specialize in Byzantine coins for these very reasons.
With rising global demand and limited supply, they are not only historically valuable, but also gaining popularity as investment-grade assets.

A Timeless Witness to History

This solidus of Phocas I is a rare survivor from a turbulent period, shining with both historical weight and artistic detail.
Its symbolism, quality, and scarcity make it a standout piece for serious collectors of ancient and medieval coinage.

Whether as a collector’s centerpiece or as a long-term investment, this Byzantine gold coin offers unmatched value and lasting appeal.

Add this extraordinary historical artifact to your collection—a timeless witness to the empire’s glory and strife.