John I Tzimices. Gold Solidus (4.40 g), 969-976. Constantinople. + IhS XIS REX REGNAntinm; Bust of Christ facing, raising hand in benediction and holding Gospels. Reverse: + ΘEOTOC BOHΘ Iω δES; Bust of John I, on left, wearing loros, holding patriarchal cross with pellet on shaft, being crowned by the Theotokos; above, manus Dei and MΘ. DOC 3; SB 1785. Very scarce. Boldly struck on a nice wide flan. We note some rim damage not effecting the design. NGC photo cert grade MS; Strike: 4/5, Surface: 4/5. Edge crimps, flan flaw. Estimated Value $500 - UP 

Ex The William Oldknow Collection.