Alupios, imperial mandator of the droungarios, 10th century. Seal (Lead, 25 mm, 6.82 g, 12 h). +KЄ ROHΘ TⲰ CⲰ ΔOVΛ, - M - Θ Nimbate Theotokos 'Nikopoios' facing, holding medallion of Christ on her chest with both hands in prayer . Rev. AΛVΠ, R’ MANΔ’ T૪ ΔPOΓAP, - O / A/Γ - A/K/A/K, Nimbate and draped bust of Saint Akakios facing, wearing jeweled chlamys and holding martyr's cross. Unpublished in the standard references. A remarkable seal of excellent preservation. About extremely fine.


Saint Akakios was a Roman soldier from Cappadocia who was martyred for his faith in 303/4 in Byzantion (Constantinopolis). He was venerated as a military saint, but he very rarely appears on seals.