Watch List notes:

BYZANTINE, Official Dies. temp. Romanus III Argyrus. 1028-1034. Iron die for AR Histamenon Nomisma. Dimensions: overall length, 109mm; diameter, 25mm at face, increasing to approximately 55mm at octagonal base. Of cylindrical form with central tang. Weight: 936.60 grams. Iron face with intaglio of obverse of Constantinople mint histamenon nomisma of Romanus III Argyrus (SB 1819). Cf. CNG 105, lot 1029 (rev. of follis for Justin I [for another official die]). Intact, some minor corrosion, but in an overall excellent state of preservation. Unique for this ruler.


Ex Rauch 95 (30 September 2014), lot 812.