Solidus, Eastern Roman Empire, Constantinople, Theodosius II, 408–450

This coin was minted in Constantinople for Emperor Theodosius. On the obverse (front) of the coin is an image of the emperor, together with the inscription D(eus) N(oster) THEODOSIUS P(ater) P(atriae) AUG(ustus), which means “our ruler Theodosius, father of our country, the exalted one”.

On the reverse (back), the emperor is depicted with an orb surrounded by the inscription VOT(is) XXX (tricennalibus) MULT(is) XXXX (quadragennalibus), which means “prayers on the 30th anniversary with hopes for a 40th anniversary”. His hopes were realised, and Theodosius II ruled as emperor for 42 years (between 408 and 450 AD).

Image rights: Helena Bonnevier, Ekonomiska museet - Kungliga myntkabinettet/SHM (CC BY 4.0)

Object number: 206977_KMK

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