John I Tzimisces, 969-976. Seal (Lead, 30 mm, 17.67 g, 12 h). +IhS XRS RЄX RЄGNANTIЧM Facing bust of Christ, wearing nimbus cruciger, raising his right hand in benediction inside fold and holding book of Gospels in his left. Rev. +IⲰAnn’ Єn XⲰ AVTOKR'T RⲰM’ Facing bust of John, wearing crown with cross and pendilia, divitision and jeweled chlamys, holding globe surmounted by patriarchal cross in his right hand and rayed cross in his left. Zacos/Veglery 73. An extremely rare imperial seal type with a beautiful portrait of John Tzimisces. Minor roughness and surface cracks, otherwise, very fine.