The Byzantine Empire
Michael III "the Drunkard", 842 – 867 and associate rulers from 866. Solidus circa 843-856, 4.44 g. IhSЧSX - RIStOSS Facing bust of Christ bearded, with cross behind head, wearing tunic and himation, raising r. in blessing and holding the book of Gospels in l. hand. Rev. +mIXAHLS ΘЄ – O – dORA Facing bust of Michael, beardless, on l., and Theodora, on r., both crowned; the emperor wears chlamys, his mother loros; between their heads, pellet and, above, cross. DO 2. Sear 1687.
Very rare. Extremely fine
Ex Leu sale 91, 2004, 893.