Heraclius, with Heraclius Constantine, 610-641. Pendant (Bronze, 21 mm, 0.97 g, 12 h), imitating a light weight solidus of 23 siliquae from Constantinopolis, after 613. VIi•IINCIOICV On the left, draped and short-bearded facing bust of Heraclius, wearing crown surmounted by cross; on the right, draped and beardless facing bust of Heraclius Constantine, wearing crown surmounted by cross; between them, a cross. Rev. IΛΓΓCIΓooV[...]ΛCVVIo / o'Λ Cross potent on base and three steps; in field to left and right, star. Cf. DOC 11, MIB 55 and SB 773 (for prototype). With original suspension loop. A beautifully crafted and interesting piece. Good very fine.



This pendant imitates a solidus of Heraclius and Heraclius Constantine - not just any piece, but, as indicated by the two stars on the reverse, a very rare light weight solidus (SB 773). The pendant’s notably thin flan suggests it was worn as an amulet around the neck; despite a standard solidus diameter of 21 mm, it weighs only 0.97 g!