Byzantine Empire AD 685-695 Justinian II Christ Portrait Gold Solidus NGC Ch MS – Series VI

Justinian II was the first Byzantine emperor to introduce the image of Christ on the official coinage, a significant departure from the traditional imperial portraits. The coins, particularly the solidus, depicted Christ’s bust on the obverse, often with the inscription “IHS ChS REX REGNANTIUM” (Jesus Christ, King of Kings).

The depiction of Christ on coinage underscored the divine sanction of the emperor’s rule and the Christian character of the empire. It served both as a declaration of faith and a tool for asserting Justinian II’s authority, linking him directly to the divine.

The depiction of Christ on coinage became a standard feature of Byzantine currency, continuing for centuries and influencing the development of Christian iconography in the medieval period.