Justinian I, 4 April 527 - 14 November 565 A.D.Bronze follis, (SBCV 217), weight 13.8g, max. diameter 30.85 mm, 3rd officina, Antioch (Theoupolis) mint, 527 - 538 A.D. Obv. D N IVSTINIANVS PP AVG, laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right; reverse large M between two stars, cross above, Γ beneath ( for 3rd officinia), Θ Υ Π O Δ Σ in ex. Olive green patina.
Background Info. courtesy Forvm Ancient Coins;
Joint rule with Justin I (his uncle), 4 April - 1 August 527 A.D.
Justinian I served his uncle, Emperor Justin I, throughout his reign formulating most imperial policy. Recognizing his brilliance, he was rapidly promoted and in the final months of Justin's reign he was made co-emperor. Justinian's sole rule began on 1 August 527 and lasted almost four decades during which he re-conquered much of the empire lost during the preceding century, including North Africa, Italy, and parts of Spain. He is well known for his codification of the legal system. His grand scale building program included St Sophia, which still stands as the centerpiece of modern Istanbul. Unfortunately his ambitious efforts strained the empire's resources and depleted the treasure built by Anastasius. Most of the territory he gained was lost shortly after his death.
In 538, the Persians led by Khosrau I sacked the city of Antioch.
Steve E
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Maurice Tiberius, 13 August 582 - 22 November 602 A.D.Bronze follis, (SBCV 494), weight 11.8g, max. diameter 31.9 mm, 2nd officina, Constantinople mint, 590 - 591 A.D.; Obv. D N mAVRC TIbER PP AVC, helmeted and cuirassed bust facing, globus cruciger in right, shield in left, Rev. large M, cross above, ANNO left, σ I II (year 9) right, B (2nd officina) below, CON in exergue. Brown with dusty green desert patina.
Background Info courtesy Forvm Ancient Coins;
Joint rule with Theodosius (his son), 29 March 590 - 22 November 602 A.D.
Maurice Tiberius, a successful general, was selected by Tiberius II Constantine as his successor. Although he achieved a favorable peace in Persia and was able to stem the losses of territory in Italy and Africa, much of the Balkans were lost. Focas, a junior officer, led a military revolt against Maurice and was declared emperor in November 602. Maurice and Theodosius, his son and co-emperor, were captured and murdered.
Steve E
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