Watch List notes:

John III Ducas (Vatatzes), Emperor of Nicaea, 1222-1254. Hyperpyron (Gold, 27mm, 4.48 g 6), Magnesia, 1232-1254. IC XC Christ, nimbate, seated facing on throne, holding book of Gospels and raising right hand in benediction. Rev. Fragmentary inscription The Virgin Mary, on the right, standing facing and raising her right hand to crown the emperor, standing facing on the left. DOC 5. SB 2073. Sharp, toned and well-struck. Extremely fine.


From the collection of the late Hans Gutknecht of Zürich.