From the Gemini IV Auction, Closed January 8, 2008. Lot # 545 - Price Realized: US$4000 EMPIRE OF NICAEA. John III, Ducas-Vatatzes. (1222-1254 AD). Aspron trachy (2.76 gm). Magnesia, 1232-1254 AD. IC XC EMMA NOVA across field, nimbate bust of Christ Emmanuel facing, raising right hand in benediction / John standing facing on left, St. Theodore standing facing on right, together holding patriarchal cross between them, each also holding sheathed sword with other hand; DA.. from legend visible over the saint's left shoulder. DO 23. Sear 2077. Extremely rare. Extremely fine. Ex LHS 97, 10 May 2006, lot 118. © 2005-2008 Gemini, LLC | Email: info@geminiauction.com Gemini Auctions' results, text and images are re-used by the kind permission of: Freeman & Sear (www.freemanandsear.com) and Harlan J Berk (www.harlanjberk.com)