2019-08-16 Fri

Theodore II Laskaris was the Byzantine Greek emperor reigning from 1254 to 1258. An able ruler and a good soldier, he succeeded in holding together the prosperous state east of Constantinople bequeathed to him by his father.

Theodore II was the only son of Emperor John III Doukas Vatatzes and Eirene Laskarina. At the outset of his reign, he renewed the alliance with Seljuq Sultanate of Rum (in modern Turkey).

The above shown gold Hyperpyron issued under his reign from Magnesia. The obverse of a coin represents Full-length figure of Christ Pantocrator enthroned facing, raising a right hand in benediction. The reverse of a coin depicts Theodore standing facing, holding labarum, being crowned by the Virgin Mary, head slightly left.

Image Courtesy: Heritage Auctions