JOHN V, Palaeologus. 1341-1391. AR Reduced Basilikon (1.22 gm). Formerly 
      attributed to Andronicus III, 1328-1341. Constantinople mint. IC [XC] 
      across field, John V standing facing, holding labarum and globus cruciger, 
      nimbate bust of Christ above / AN­PONIK ­MIT, GOA, St. Demetrius at left, 
      standing facing, holding cross, and Andronicus III at right, standing 
      facing, hand to breast. DOC V 944; LPC pg. 120, 7 var. (legend 
      arrangement; Andronicus III); Grierson 1322; SB 2474 (Andronicus III). 
      Toned, good VF. Extremely rare. ($2500) John V was a most unfortunate 
      character, despite being emperor for fifty years. He ascended the throne 
      at age nine, having little real power, while Anna of Savoy and John 
      Cantacuzenus struggled for power. Anna was regent for six years, and then 
      deposed by Cantacuzenus, who forcibly took the position of co-emperor John 
      VI. John V ousted John VI in 1353, a century before the final collapse of 
      the Byzantine Empire, but the decline was already complete. As the 
      Byzantine state watched helplessly, the Turks overran the Balkans and no 
      other powers would intervene. Finally, John V was subjugated by the Turks, 
      becoming a vassal, and was dependent upon the Ottoman dynasty for all 
      subsequent military support.


Triton V Sale, 16 Jan 2002, lot 2318.
 
 Lot sold for $1500, plus buyers fees.

By permission of CNG, www.cngcoins.com.