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House of Emirates® is thrilled to offer its elite clientele this extraordinary Byzantine silver treasure struck during the reign of one of the Eastern Roman Empire’s most formidable warrior-emperors, Nicephorus II Phocas (AD 963–969).
A remarkable witness to an age of military triumph, imperial authority, and artistic sophistication, this magnificent Silver Miliaresion was minted in the legendary city of Constantinople, the glittering capital of the Byzantine Empire and the heart of medieval civilization. More than a millennium after its creation, this historic silver coin continues to captivate collectors, historians, and investors with its exceptional preservation, powerful symbolism, and undeniable rarity.
Crafted from silver and weighing 2.36 grams with an impressive diameter of 24.21 mm, this distinguished issue embodies the grandeur of a ruler who reshaped the fortunes of the Byzantine Empire. The obverse displays a striking medallion portrait of Emperor Nicephorus II Phocas, depicted facing forward with a short beard, adorned with a crown and loros, the ceremonial vestment reserved for imperial authority. Surrounding the imperial image is the sacred inscription and an elegant cross crosslet resting upon a globe above two steps, reflecting the deep intertwining of divine legitimacy and earthly power that characterized Byzantine rule. Every detail serves as a testament to the empire’s unwavering commitment to faith, sovereignty, and artistic excellence.
The reverse presents an impressive five-line imperial legend proclaiming the emperor’s titles and authority. Executed in bold Byzantine script, the inscription remains a fascinating historical document in silver, carrying the voice of an empire that stood as the guardian of Roman civilization for centuries after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. Struck at the prestigious Mint of Constantinople, this piece is referenced in the foremost numismatic catalogues as Sear 1781 and DOC 6, further confirming its significance and authenticity.
Graded Very Fine, this exceptional Miliaresion preserves remarkable detail considering its age of over 1,050 years. The coin’s elegant fabric, attractive silver surfaces, and historical importance make it a coveted acquisition for serious collectors of Byzantine, Roman, and medieval coinage. Beyond its numismatic appeal, it represents a tangible connection to one of history’s greatest empires—a rare opportunity to hold in one’s hand a genuine artifact from the age of emperors, crusades, and legendary conquests.
An investment-grade relic of imperial Constantinople, this majestic silver issue stands not merely as a coin, but as a surviving monument to the enduring legacy of Emperor Nicephorus II Phocas and the timeless splendor of Byzantium.
