Co-emperor of the Byzantine Empire

"[The Byzantine Empire] is now clearly seen for what it was - not the final stage in the disintegration of the Roman Empire, but a remarkable durable bridge between the Ancient and Mediaeval worlds with a truly unique culture centered on the Christian religion."

-David R. Sear, Numismatist

Late into the 7th Century, the image of Jesus Christ was starting to be used on coinage throughout the Byzantine Empire. In addition to a religious portrait, it is not uncommon to see the uses of crosses and other Christian iconography along with a portrait of the ruling emperor, or co-ruling emperors of the era. This coin features the co-emperors Basil II and Constine VIII, during their rule over the height of the Byzantine Empire. Their successes are attributed to the many critical battles that were won teamed with the ability to put competent leaders in powerful positions. Basil co-ruled with his younger brother, Constantine VIII, as a colleague and it became known that while Basil enjoyed the pleasures of ruling, the more tenuous and forceful affairs were left to his brother. Basil maintained a long dedication to the protection of the Empire, and before dying at nearly Seventy years of age, was planning a military campaign.