2019-06-07 Fri

Theodosius was the Eastern Roman Emperor reigning from 408 to 450 AD. He was a son and successor of Arcadius (383-408). He allowed his government to be run by a succession of relatives and ministers.

At various times during his reign, Theodosius sent armies against the Vandals of Africa, the Persians, and the Huns. He is mostly known for promulgating the Theodosian law code, and for construction of the Theodosian Walls of Constantinople.

Today on this day in 421, Theodosius married Aelia Eudocia, a woman of Greek origin. During the reign, he issued gold, silver, and copper coins from various mints such as Nicomedia, Antioch, Alexandria, Thessalonica, Cyzicus, Rome, and Ravenna.

Depicted here is silver Miliarense issued during his reign from Constantinople mint. The obverse of a coin depicted the pearl-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust of Theodosius II. On the other hand, the reverse of a coin portrays the Theodosius standing figure in military dress, nimbate head left, raising a right hand; globe in left; star in left field, CON in exergue.

Image Source: Heritage Auctions