Leo VI AD 886-912 BYZANTINE Solidus 4.25g NGC VF St/5 Su/4 Virgin Mary

Introducing a numismatic treasure, the Leo VI AD 886-912 Byzantine Solidus—a magnificent piece of history immaculately preserved over the centuries. This exquisite coin, weighing 4.25 grams, is a testament to the grandeur of the Byzantine Empire's legacy and a rare opportunity for collectors to own a piece of the past.

Crafted during the reign of Leo VI, famously known as Leo the Wise, this Solidus encapsulates the artistic and historical significance of Byzantine coinage. The obverse illustration portrays the iconic figure of the Virgin Mary, engraved with captivating detail. The reverse side traditionally features an exquisite depiction of Emperor Leo VI in his official regalia, embodying both the political stability and the spiritual essence of his reign.

Certified and graded by NGC as Very Fine (VF) with stellar surfaces rated 4 and superb strikes rated 5, this coin marries aesthetic appeal with authenticity. The coin's luminous golden hue shines brilliantly, reflecting its regal origins and the high craftsmanship of the period.

This numismatic gem not only offers an aesthetic delight but also serves as an insightful glimpse into an era characterized by profound cultural and artistic achievements. Its rarity is evidenced by the limited population of specimens graded this high or higher, ensuring its status as a cherished acquisition for both seasoned collectors and historians alike.

extremely rare piece represents the first instance in which the Virgin is depicted on a Byzantine coin. It was struck at a time when almost no gold coinage was issued and was apparently ceremonial in nature (the vast majority of Leo's gold has in addition to his own name, that of his son, and thus it must have been struck between 908 and 912). Since gold was plentiful during the first twenty-two years of Leo's reign, it is curious that it was not coined. The most likely explanation is a law (Novel 52) passed during Leo's reign. He greatly disagreed with a previous edict, perhaps issued by Basil I, that demonetised a previous ruler's coinage. Leo felt that as long as a coin was of the proper weight and fineness then it should pass current at the same rate, and therefore he probably did not issue gold coinage for several years. From a modern perspective it seems that this was somewhat irrelevant, as hoard evidence proves that attempts at demonetisation were generally ineffective, or only rarely were practiced, as the gold hoards tend to be of a mixed nature.

Invest in this Leo VI Byzantine Solidus and enrich your collection with an emblem of imperial excellence. Perfect for those who value historical depth, artistic beauty, and the allure of Byzantine numismatics. Acquire this exclusive artifact today and own a tangible piece of world history.