Miliaresion 1030 (?).
Obv.+ ΠΑΡΘΕΝΕ - COI ΠΟΛVΑΙΝΕ The Virgin, nimbate, standing three-quarter r. on footstool, holding in her arms the infant Christ also nimbate; in field, M - Θ.
Rev. [OC ΗΛΠΙ]ΚΕ ΠΑΝ - (ΤΑ)ΚΑΤΟΡΘΟΙ Romanus standing facing on footstool, holding long patriarchal cross and globus surmounted by patriarchal cross.
Sear 1822. DOC 3.
2.69 g. Extremely rare. Pierced. About very fine.
Ex Baldwin´s London Price list July 1992. Nr. 40.
Of the few pieces in the trade, a large number are holed. Obviously they were used as amulets because of the depiction of Mother of God and infant Christ.
This famous coin with its elegant portrayal of the Virgin is one of the most beautiful creations of Byzantine coin art. Most specimens are damaged, broken, holed or gilded. The inscription is a hexameter that goes from obverse to reverse and reads as follows: ´´He, who sets his hope in you, oh all-glorious Virgin, will have success in all his undertakings´´.