Phocas, 602-610. Solidus (Gold, 22 mm, 4.32 g, 6 h), a contemporary imitation from an irregular mint, after 603-607. O N FOCAS PERP AVI Draped and cuirassed bust of Phocas facing, wearing crown surmounted by cross and holding globus cruciger in his right hand. Rev. VICTORIA AVI I ·: / CONOB Angel standing facing, holding globus cruciger in his left hand and long staff surmounted by staurogram in his right. Cf. DOC 5, MIB 7 and SB 618 (for prototype). Struck from somewhat worn dies and with areas of weakness, otherwise, good extremely fine.


This interesting imitation is close to SB 618, but with minor differences. Whether it is Germanic, Slav, or Arab is uncertain.