Late Roman Empire 491-518AD Anastasius Gold Solidus AU-UNC (AU55)

Late Roman Empire 491-518AD Constantinople Mint Anastasius Gold Solidus AU-UNC (AU-55)

Anastasius I Dicorus (AD 430–518) became Eastern Roman Emperor in 491 at the age of 61, succeeding Zeno and marrying the widowed empress Ariadne. A skilled administrator with a background in finance, he is remembered for reforming the empire’s tax system, streamlining the currency, and introducing the copper follis, which became a staple of Byzantine coinage. His frugal policies and careful management greatly strengthened the imperial treasury, leaving it overflowing upon his death. Though his reign faced religious tensions between Chalcedonian and Monophysite factions, Anastasius maintained relative stability and fortified the empire’s frontiers, setting the stage for the prosperity of the early Byzantine period.

Obverse: Helmeted and cuirassed bust facing three-quarters to the right, holding a spear over his right shoulder, and a shield on his left, with the legend around.
Reverse: Victory standing facing left, holding a vexillum, with a star to the right, legend around, and mint mark below.

Specifications:
Emperor: Anastasius I Dicorus (491-518)
Composition: Gold
Weight: 4.43 g
Diameter: 21 mm
Mint: Constantinople