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                      Aelia Pulcheria: a Roman Empress

Aelia Pulcheria was born in 399 AD to Arcadius and Eudoxia. In 414
AD, at the early age of 15, she was given the title of Augusta and
she immediately assumed the regency on behalf of her younger brother
Theodosius II. Over the next four decades, Pulcheria would play a leading
role in the government of the East. After Theodosius', death in 450 AD,
Pulcheria chose his successor, the soldier and senator Marcian. Pulcheria
died in 453 AD leaving all her possessions to the poor.

All of Pulcheria's coins were struck in Constantinople, and for the most
part parallel the issues of Theodosius II. The obverse of her precious
metal coins all carry the same legend and all depict the hand of God. The
prominent cross on this reverse type was introduced by Pulcheria and the
Vota on her coins are those of Theodosius II.

Aelia Pulcheria, sister of Theodosius II. AV Solidus (4.37 gm). Struck
423-425 AD. Constantinople mint. Diademed and draped bust right, crowned by
manus Dei / Victory standing left, holding long jewelled cross; star in
left field; CONOB, officina I. RIC X 226; Depeyrot 75.3. EF. Very Rare.

From CNG Auction 49 (17 March 1999), lot 1892, realized $5225 with buyer's
fee.

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