Unknown Byzantine decanummium

[Tom Mullally]

Hi all,

I have a coin that I cannot find in Sear or the two vols of DOC that I own (2 and 5).  The coin appears to be a decanummium, and the only N-M in field that I can find is a Revolt of the Heraclii, SBV 715, but has an X on the reverse instead of I, and only one figure on the obverse.  The coin weighs 3.66 g, 18.4 mm.

Thanks in advance for your help,

Tom

[Sosius]

According to Helvetica's "byzants-large-others.xls" list, I think its SB 400, DOC 200, Justin II and Sophia

Justin II and Sophia   
Decanummium   565-578   Carthage   SB 400, DOC 200   
O: DN IVSTINO ET SOFIA AG   Facing busts of Justin (HC) and Sophia (CD), cross between their heads, VITA below      
R; Large I with N to left, M, to right         

[Tom Mullally]

Wow, that was quick.  Thank you very much, it does appear to be a match.

Tom

[Sosius]

You are welcome.  I don't get to contribute much to IDs, so I jumped at the chance to help out a fellow member!

[Abu Galyon]

SB400 (your coin) isn’t dated, but there are also folles and half-folles from the Carthage mint which share the same obverse devices (facing busts of Justin and Sophia with VITA in exergue) and which are known only for regnal year 8. So it’s a fairly safe bet that your type was also struck in the years 572/3.  

Bill R.