On this example, Christ is portrayed essentially as many would imagine today – bearded and with long, flowing hair. He is shown raising his right hand in benediction, and holding the Book of Gospels in his left. Behind him, the Christian Cross stands.
On the obverse of the coin, the emperor Constantine VIII is depicted wearing full and elaborate imperial regalia, and holding a cross-topped labarum.
Constantine VIII (1025-1028)AV Histamenon 4.42gm., Constantinople. Bust of Christ facing, with cross nimbus, holding the book of gospels in left hand and raising right hand in benediction, +IhS XIS REX REGNANTIhM.Rev: Bust of Constantine VIII facing, wearing crown, collar piece and loros, and holding akakia in left hand and cross-topped labarum in his right, +CωnSTAnTIn bASILEuS ROM. (DOC 1; SB 1815). Good Very Fine. £1,150
