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Solidus with bust of Galla Placidia

Byzantine, Ravenna
Reign of Valentinian III
about A.D. 426–430
Mint: Italy, Ravenna

Medium/Technique Gold
Dimensions Diameter: 21 mm. Weight: 2.42 gm. Die Axis: 12
Credit Line Anonymous gift in memory of Zoë Wilbour (1864–1885)
Accession Number35.627
ClassificationsNumismaticsCoins

DescriptionObverse: Bust of Galla Placidia right, diademed, draped, with necklace, crowned by hand, above. On her right shoulder: Chi Rho.
DNGALLAPLA CIDIAPFAVG
Reverse: Victory standing left, holding tall cross. Above star.
VOTXX MVLTXXX In field: R V In exergue: COMOB

The Empress wears elaborate jewelry, including the imperial fibula (previously only worn by the senior emperor) indicating her status as Augusta (empress).
Provenance1935, anonymous gift to the MFA. (Accession Date: April 4, 1935)