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Byzantine Empire, Justinian II, Solidus

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Byzantine Empire, Justinian II, Solidus (obverse) Byzantine Empire, Justinian II, Solidus (reverse)

This solidus from the year 705 is significant because it is the first coin to depict the image of Christ on the obverse. Emperor Justinian II (705-711) appeared only on the reverse, thus presenting himself as the servant of Christ. This is a symbol for the turning away from this life towards the hereafter.

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Signet Sunflower Foundation