Theodosius III of Adramytium, 715-717. Seal (Lead, 38 mm, 36.97 g, 12 h). The Mother of God “Hodegetria” standing facing, nimbate, wearing chiton and maphorion, pointing with her right hand towards Infant Christ seated on her left arm. On the left and right, cypress trees with the tops bending slightly towards the Mother of God.
Rev. dN TҺЄOdO-SIЧS MЧL A Bust of Theodosius III, facing, wearing crown with cross and loros crossed over his chest and falling over his left arm, and holding a globe surmounted with a patriarchal cross in right hand, akakia in left hand. DO Seals VI -. Sokolova, State Hermitage Museum -. Zacos/Veglery 32. A magnificent and extremely rare imperial seal of the finest style of the period. Minor surface roughness
, otherwise, extremely fine.
From a European collection, formed before 2005.
Theodosius III of Adramyttium (circa May 715-25 March 717) was one of the most unusual and short-lived figures to sit on the Byzantine throne. Originally a humble tax collector, he was reluctantly proclaimed emperor by the rebellious fleet and troops of the Opsician Theme. Lacking real military experience, he led his followers to Chrysopolis and captured Constantinople in November 715. His predecessor, Anastasios II, held out for several months before withdrawing to a monastery.
However, Theodosius' reign remained fragile. Many Byzantine provinces refused to recognize him, particularly the powerful troops of the Anatolic and Armeniac Themes under their ambitious commanders. One of them, Leo the Isaurian, declared himself emperor in 716 and secured an alliance with the Umayyad Caliphate. To strengthen his position, Theodosius turned to the Bulgarians under Khan Tervel, recognizing their control over the Zagoria region and agreeing to pay tribute in exchange for securing the empire’s northern border.
Yet Leo’s advance proved unstoppable. In 717, he marched on Constantinople, capturing Nicomedia and taking Theodosius' son prisoner. With his power crumbling, Theodosius was advised by Patriarch Germanus and the Senate to abdicate. On 25 March 717, he formally surrendered the throne to Leo and retired to a monastery with his son, where he likely remained until his death, possibly on 24 July 754.
