The complete legend reads “He who places his hope in thee, O Virgin, will prosper in all he does”. The depiction of Mary was adopted from an icon known as the Virgin Hodegetria, in the Hodegon monastery in Constantinople. Supposedly painted by St. Luke, this icon was regarded as a powerful protector of the city and the emperor. Romanus sought the protection of Mary when he launched his assault against the Zengids in Aleppo in 1030 AD, a campaign that nonetheless ended in failure. His miliaresion struck in her honor, however, has left behind one of the most sensitive portraits of Virgin and Child in Byzantine art.
DESIGN:
Obverse side
The Theotokos standing facing on footstool, holding nimbate infant Christ; triple border with eight spaced pellets
Legend:
+ΠΑΡΘΕΝΕ CΟΙ ΠΟΛVΑΙΝΕ, Μ Θ across field
Reverse side
Romanus standing facing on footstool, wearing crown and loros, holding long patriarchal cross and patriarchal cross on globus; triple border with eight spaced pellets
Legend:
ΟC ΗΛΠΙΚΕ ΠΑΝΤΑ ΚΑΤΟΠΘΟΙ
A perfect choice for Numismatists, Historians, Military Veterans, Collectors.
