The histamenon nomisma was the standard gold coin of the Byzantine Empire from the late 10th century onward, evolving from the earlier solidus. By the 11th century, it had become thinner and broader in form, and its iconography was deeply rooted in Christian imperial theology, typically featuring Christ, the Virgin Mary, or saints on the obverse or reverse alongside the emperor. This Gold Hist. Nomisma coin earned an About Uncirculated grade from the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). Right now, Byzantine Empire Constantine IX AV Hist. Nomisma Coins are available at JM Bullion.

Coin Highlights:

• Arrives in an individual slab!
• Produced in the mid-11th century AD!
• Released during the reign of Constantine IX!
• 4/5 strike!
• 4/5 surface!
• Contains 4.32 grams of actual gold content.
• Issued a grade of About Uncirculated by the NGC.
• Obverse includes a depiction of Christ Pantokrator.
• Reverse features a portrait of Constantine IX.
• Please keep in mind that each coin in this listing may have a slight variation in visual appearance/condition.

Each Byzantine Empire Constantine IX AV Hist. Nomisma Coin available here is an About Uncirculated specimen. The coin features a 4/5 grade for both the strike and surface condition. The 4/5 strike designation indicates a coin with clear, visible design strikes and centered visuals. The 4/5 surface designation is for coins with above-average luster, as well as minimal signs of handling or circulation.

Constantine IX came to power through marriage to Empress Zoë and presided over a period of significant administrative and military decline. His coinage, while still visually impressive, reflects some of the broader troubles of his reign. This coin marks a critically important numismatic point. Constantine IX’s reign is associated with the beginning of the serious debasement of the Byzantine gold coinage. The fineness of the nomisma began declining noticeably in response to the empire’s growing financial pressures. This trend would accelerate under his successors and contribute to long-term economic instability.

The iconography of the Byzantine Empire Constantine IX AV Hist. Nomisma coins reflect the long-standing traditions for Orthodox symbolism on imperial currency. The obverse features a seated version of the Christ Pantokrator design, with Jesus set in front-facing relief, seated on a throne. On the reverse, the coin depicts a bust of Emperor Constantine IX.

If you have any questions when buying ancient gold coins, please feel free to ask. JM Bullion customer service is available at 800-276-6508, online using our web chat, and via our email address.