Advanced Search 
View: Reverse
Solidus (reverse) with Bust of Irene
Byzantine, Constantinople
Reign of Irene
A.D. 797–802
Mint: Constantinople
Medium/Technique
Gold
Dimensions
Diameter: 19 mm; Weight: 4.37 gm; Die Axis: 6
Credit Line
Anonymous gift in memory of Zoë Wilbour (1864–1885)
Accession Number35.702
CollectionsEurope
ClassificationsNumismatics – Coins
DescriptionObverse: EIRIηH bASILISSH Bust of Irene facing, wearing loros and crown with cross, pinnacles, and pendilia. In r. hand, gl. cr.; in l., cross scepter
Reverse: Same inscr. as obv., but, at end, cross in circle Same type as obv.
Irene’s portrait on both sides indicates her status as sole empress, after blinding her son.
Reverse: Same inscr. as obv., but, at end, cross in circle Same type as obv.
Irene’s portrait on both sides indicates her status as sole empress, after blinding her son.
Provenance1935, anonymous gift to the MFA. (Accession Date: April 4, 1935)