Heraclius, with Heraclius Constantine, 610-641. 'Solidus' (Bronze, 20 mm, 3.40 g, 5 h), a contemporary cast imitation from an irregular mint, after circa 616. NN ҺERACLIЧS ET ҺERA CONST PP AV Crowned, draped and short-bearded bust of Heraclius facing, on the left; crowned and draped bust of Heraclius Constantine facing, with slight beard and moustache, on the right; above, cross. Rev. VICTORIA AVςЧ Є / CONOB Cross potent on base and three steps. Cf. DOC 13d, MIB 11 and SB 738 (for prototype). Beautiful earthen highlights. Very fine.

This curious piece, which has all the signs of being ancient, appears to be a contemporary cast bronze imitation of a solidus. It perhaps served as a local emergency issue in a time of crisis (similar to Roman 'limes'-casts), of which Heraclius' reign was notoriously rich in