Aelia Eudocia, Gold Medallion of 2 Solidi

Aelia Eudocia (wife of Theodosius II), Gold Medallion of 2 Solidi. Mint of Constantinople, struck A.D. 423 (?). AEL EVDO-CIA AVG, pearl-diademed and draped bust facing right, rev. SALVS REI-PVBLICAE, the Empress, nimbate and draped, enthroned facing, her feet resting on a cushion, a star in left field, CONOB in exergue, 8.93g., 6h (cf. NAC Auction 84, Zurich, 20 May 2015, lot 1293; cf. Berk, sale 126, April 2002, lot 563; Gnecchi -; RIC -; MIRB -; LRC -; Depeyrot -). Apparently one of only three known examples, of the highest rarity thus, areas of soft-striking at centre of obverse and reverse, otherwise with a beautiful portrait and an elegant reverse, good extremely fine.

Aelia Eudocia, formerly called Athenais, was selected by Theodosius's sister, Pulcheria, during a visit to Constantinople, to be a suitable wife for the emperor. After around twenty years at the court, Eudocia fell under the suspicion of adultery. Although she always protested her innocence, she spent the remainder of her life in Jerusalem where she retained the title of Augusta until her death on 20 October 460. The occasion for the striking of this extremely rare gold medallion is not entirely clear. Of the major events that took place during Aelia Eudocia's life, perhaps the most likely would be in commemoration of her assumption of the title of Augusta. This is supported by Kent's (RIC X) classification of her Solidi based on style, the earliest period to which the medallion appears to fit.

Ex Gemini Auction I, 11 January 2005, lot 483