2019-06-03 Mon

The eldest son of Constans II, Constantine IV was born around 650. Constans II proclaimed him co-emperor in April 654, after the murder of his father; Constantine IV became emperor association with his brothers, Heraclius and Tiberius.

The most significant event of the reign of Constantine IV was the Arab siege of Constantinople, which lasted for four years and ended with the decisive defeat of the Arabs. During the reign, he issued gold, silver, and copper coins from various mints such as Ravenna, Naples, Syracuse, Carthage, and Constantinople.

Depicted here is gold solidus issued under his reign from Constantinople mint. The obverse of a coin depicted the Helmeted and cuirassed bust of Constantine IV, head slightly right, holding spear over the right shoulder, and shield on the left arm.

The reverse of a coin depicted the legend ‘VICTOA AVGU’ and officina letter, cross potent on three steps between Heraclius and Tiberius, both wearing chlamys, crowned with a cross, and holding globus; mintmark CONOB depicted in exergue.

Image Source: Heritage Auction