Classical Numismatic Group, LLC
Electronic Auction 534 15 Mar 2023
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Justin II. 565-578. AV Solidus (20.5mm, 4.37 g, 7h). Constantinople mint, 1st officina. Struck January 566 or 567-578. Helmeted and cuirassed bust facing, with short beard, holding Victory on globe and shield / Constantinopolis seated facing on throne, head right, holding scepter and globus cruciger; A//CONOB. DOC 1-3 var. (unlisted officina); MIBE 5; SB 344. Some minor die rust, thin gash on reverse, some light scratches, light edge shaving. VF. Rare variety with beard.
On a minor issue of solidi, the normally clean shaven Justin is shown with a slight beard. This has been taken to indicate a mourning beard, an ancient Roman custom to show respect for the recently deceased. Not all authorities, however, accept that these were among the first issues of Justin after the death of his uncle Justinian I. MIBE does not distinguish between the bearded and beardless bust type for these solidi, and places them all within the issues of 567-578.
On a minor issue of solidi, the normally clean shaven Justin is shown with a slight beard. This has been taken to indicate a mourning beard, an ancient Roman custom to show respect for the recently deceased. Not all authorities, however, accept that these were among the first issues of Justin after the death of his uncle Justinian I. MIBE does not distinguish between the bearded and beardless bust type for these solidi, and places them all within the issues of 567-578.