Almost Uncirculated dated Æ Follis (40 nummi) coin, max dia. 33mm, 13.17g, Constantinople (CON) mint, 2nd Officina (B). Struck Year 20 (XX) = 601-602 CE, Sear 495.
Certified by NGC to AU, Strike 5/5, Surface 4/5.
Well struck withbroad flan, full legends and impressive quality.
Pedigree: Ex. Victor England (pre-cursor to CNG) fixed price list.
Obverse:D N mAVRICI TIbeR P P, crowned bust facing, wearing consular robes, mappa in right hand, scepter surmounted by eagle in left.
Reverse:Large M (mark of value); A/N/N/O to left, XX(date) to right, Chi-Rho above, B below, CON (mintmark) in exergue.
Maurice was a prominent general, and fought with success against the Sassanian Empire. After he became Emperor, he brought the war with Sassanian Persia to a victorious conclusion. In the West Maurice consolidated what was left of Justinian's re-conquests. Maurice was unable to resolve threats from the Slav and Avar advance, causing a serious loss of prestige and territory. These events led to a military revolt resulting in Phocas being proclaimed Emperor.
