Theophilus, 821-842 AD.

6186. Gold semissis, DO 19, Wroth (BMC) 34, Tolstoi 14, CBN 6-
7, SBCV 1676, gem EF, Syracuse Sicily mint, 1.80g, 12.4mm, 180°, 829-
830 A.D.; obverse * QEOFILOS b A, crowned bust of Theophilus facing 
with short beard, wearing chlamys and holding globus cruciger; reverse 
similar to obverse, but emperor wears loros instead of chlamys and 
without star preceding legend; a near perfect example of this scarce 
issue - bold, sharp, fantastic centering and mint luster; scarce.

After Leo III, 717-741 A.D., the semissis and tremissis were issued only in small quantities and normally only on particular occasions for ceremonial distribution. Ex Woolslayer collection.


Courtesy of Forvm Ancient Coins, Feb. 2009