THEODOSIUS II, A.D. 402-450. AV Solidus (4.44 gms), Constantinople Mint, 3rd Officina, A.D. 420-22. NGC Ch AU, Strike: 5/5 Surface: 3/5. Edge Cut. RIC-219. Obverse: Helmeted, cuirassed bust facing three-quarters right, holding shield and spear; Reverse: Victory standing left holding long jeweled cross. An impressively well-preserved Solidus without the weakness on the portrait that typically plagues more circulated examples. Both sides offer razor-sharp detail surrounded by shimmering mint luster. A tiny edge cut at 8 oclock on the reverse does not detract from this exceptional piece of Roman gold. Ex: Christies New York (05/1984), Lot # 530.<p><p>Ex: Virgil Brand Collection (Formed ca. 1932).
