2019-07-11 Thu

Leo V, also known as Leo the Armenian was the Byzantine Emperor from 813 to 820. He ended the decade long war with the Bulgar, and is responsible for inaugurating the second Iconoclastic period in the Byzantine Empire. Leo was the son of the Patrician Bardas, who was Armenian descent. He was a successful general in the armies of Nikephorus I and Michael I, dealing both the Arabs and Bulgarians several defeats. Upon the collapse of Michael I's regime, he assumed the throne.

During the reign he issued coins in the denomination of Solidus, Miliaresion , Follis, and Semissis. These coins were struck at various mints Constantinople and Syracuse mints.

The above shown gold Solidus issued under his reign from Constantinople mint. The obverse of a coin depicts the crowned facing bust of Leo, wearing slight beard and chlamys, and holding akakia and cross potent. On the other hand, the reverse of a coin has crowned facing bust of Constantine, wearing chlamys and holding acacia and globus cruciger.

Image Source: Heritage Auctions