Symbols of a Christian Empire
Many of the images found on Byzantine coins are derived from Christian religious
icons and artwork decorating the great churches and palaces of Constantinople. The
rule of the Emperor was believed to be sanctioned by God.
Gold solidus (692-695) of Justinian II from
Constantinople depicting Christ Pantokrator and the Emperor holding a cross.
Silver miliaresion
(830-838) of Theophilus from Constantinople.
Gold histamenon of the
empresses Zoe and Theodora (1042) from Constantinople, depicting the Virgin Mary and
the Christ Child.
Gold histamenon of
Romanus IV (1067-1071) depicting the Emperor and Empress crowned by Christ.