Michael VIII Palaeologus AV Hyperpyron. Magnesia mint, circa 1261.

The Virgin enthroned facing, holding the nimbate head of the infant Christ; throne back decorated with saltires & pellets

Michael standing facing, being presented by Saint Michael, who stands behind him, to Christ enthroned left holding scroll.

DOC V 1; Bendall 3A; SB 2241.

This important piece heralds the transition between the rump empire of Nicaea and the glorious restitution of Palaeologan rule at Constantinople by Michael VIII. His gold issue struck at Magnesia before the reconquest survives in possibly only one example, SB 2238 with Christ enthroned / Michael crowned by Christ. This second type, with the victorious Michael kneeling and offering prayers to Christ, is likely an allusion to his successful campaign to oust the Crusaders from the ancient capital. His last and most common hyperpyron type shows the Virgin within the walls of the city. Grierson suggests that the three varieties of this Type II hyperpyron, with saltires, B|B or K|K on the throne back, were struck at both Magnesia and Constantinople as the Byzantine court transfered to its ancestral home. The last two varieties refer to Basileus basilewn kai Kurios kuriwn — "King of Kings and Lord of Lords," a victory acclamation.

Coin from CNG coins, through Wildwinds. Used with permission.

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