EMPEROR HERACLIUS Genuine Byzantine 24Kt Semissis Gold Coin 6th Cent. AD 18kt Pendant
This exquisite 18Kt Gold pendant houses a genuine Byzantine Gold Semissis, struck during the reign of Emperor Heraclius (610–641 AD). The obverse depicts the pearl-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust of Heraclius facing right, with the inscription “DN HERACLI-S PP AVI”. On the reverse, Victory is represented holding a cross potent on a globe, with the inscription “VICTORIA AVS” and “CONOB” in the exergue.
Heraclius came to the Byzantine throne in 610 AD, at a moment when the Empire faced one of the greatest crises in its history. The powerful Sassanian Persians had conquered vast territories, occupying much of Asia Minor and soon extending their rule into Syria and Egypt. In 614 AD, Jerusalem fell, and the Holy Cross was carried away to Ctesiphon.
Faced with the imminent collapse of the Empire, Heraclius launched a remarkable counter-offensive in 622 AD. After years of intense campaigns, his armies succeeded in defeating the Sassanian forces and bringing the long conflict to an end. The Persian Empire, Byzantium’s greatest eastern rival, was left severely weakened.
One of the most symbolic moments of Heraclius’ reign came with the restoration of the Holy Cross to Jerusalem, following the Byzantine victory. The image of Victory holding the cross on this Semissis therefore carries particular significance, celebrating both military triumph and the restoration of one of Christianity’s most sacred relics.
Heraclius remains one of the most remarkable rulers of the Byzantine Empire. His reign marked a turning point in Byzantine history, preserving the Empire during one of its darkest periods and laying the foundations for a new era.
Our jewelry store, Serra Roma, proudly presents an exquisite collection that beautifully honors the ancient traditions of Greek and Roman civilizations. Each piece in our collection, including authentic ancient Roman and Greek coins and intaglios, is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, providing proof of its historical significance and origin.