2020-01-25 Sat

Leo IV the Khazar was the Emperor of the Byzantine Empire reigning from 776 to 780 AD. His reign marked a transition between the period of Iconoclasm and the restoration of the icons.

Leo IV was born on 25th January, 750 AD, to Emperor Constantine IV and Tzitzak. He became Emperor at the death of his father while campaigning against the Bulgarian Empire. Leo launched an invasion against Abbasids in 778, invading Syria. Shortly before the close of his reign, he launched a persecution of those favoring the use of icons.

Leo died of a violent fever, due to his tuberculosis in 780 AD. He was succeeded by his son Constantine, with Leo's wife Irene as his regent. His coins were found in the denomination of Solidus, Miliaression, and Follis. These coins were struck at Constantinople and Syracuse mint.

The above shown gold Solidus issued under his reign from Constantinople mint. The obverse face of this coin depicts Leo IV (on left) and Constantine VI (on right) seated facing on double throne, each wearing crown and chlamys; between their heads, cross. The reverse of a coin shows the crowned Facing busts of Leo III (on left) and Constantine V (on right) both with short beards, each wearing crown and loros; between their heads, pellet in the field; above, cross.

Image Source: Heritage Auctions