Description
An attractive Byzantine gold solidus depicting Emperor Heraclius (610–641 C.E.) and his son, Heraclius Constantine, mounted in an elegant modern 14K gold pendant.
The obverse features the crowned busts of the two emperors, symbolizing imperial authority and dynastic continuity. The reverse displays a prominent Christian cross standing upon three steps, surrounded by an imperial inscription, with CONOB beneath.
Heraclius was one of the Byzantine Empire’s most significant rulers, remembered for his victories against the Persian Empire and the recovery of Jerusalem in 629–630 C.E. According to Christian tradition, he restored the True Cross to Jerusalem, giving the Christian symbolism of this coin particular historical resonance.
The gold solidus was among the most respected currencies of the ancient world, widely circulated throughout the Mediterranean and Near East.
REFERENCE #
JW-BZ-1002
CIVILIZATION
Byzantine Empire, circa 613–630 C.E.
CONDITION
Condition: Good overall condition, with visible detail to the imperial portraits and reverse cross. Minor surface wear consistent with age. Mounted in a modern 14K gold pendant setting.
PRICE
POR
PROVENANCE
Jerusalem Private Collection
Frequently Asked Questions
A Byzantine gold solidus is a high-purity gold coin first introduced during the reign of Constantine I. It served as the foundation of Byzantine coinage and was widely used as the gold standard in international commerce for centuries.
Constantine I was the first Roman emperor to embrace Christianity and established Constantinople as the new capital of the Roman Empire. His reign marked a significant shift in religious and political history, symbolized on the coin by the jeweled cross on the reverse side.
The obverse of the coin features the imperial portrait of Constantine I, while the reverse shows a jeweled cross standing on three steps, symbolizing the triumph of Christianity. The reverse is also surrounded by a Latin inscription.
The coin is expertly mounted in a handcrafted 14k gold pendant, combining the historical significance of the solidus with the timeless elegance of fine jewelry craftsmanship.
The solidus is described as being in mint condition, indicating it has been exceptionally well-preserved without signs of wear or damage.
This pendant comes from a private collection in Jerusalem, adding to its historical and collectible value by confirming its authenticity and traceable ownership.
The solidus coin introduced by Constantine I became the standard gold currency for the Byzantine Empire and influenced international trade for centuries, making it a key artifact in economic and numismatic history.
