Obolos 20

John V Palaeologus, with Anna of Savoy (Regent), 1341-1391. Basilikon (Silver, 18 mm, 1.31 g, 6 h), Constantinople, 1341-1347. ANA (MHP) ΘV Anna, seated facing, holding scepter, on low backless throne; on right, the Virgin seated left, blessing the empress; pellet in field between them. Rev. Tω Θω / IωENXω John, seated facing on right, beside Christ, on left, seated right and blessing the emperor; in field above, IC - XC. DOC -. LPC p. 138, 8. PCPC (283). SB 2509. A great rarity and an exceptional example, with complete legends, a bold strike, and lovely deep toning. Good extremely fine.

John V was just a child of nine years when he ascended the throne after the death of his father, Andronicus III. His mother, Anna of Savoy, along with John Catacuzenus and some other notables assumed the regency for the young emperor, but dissension among the parties soon followed. This led to a period of civil war, which lasted until 1347. This coin was struck during the regency and depicts Anna being blessed by the Virgin Mary, while the other side shows John being similarly blessed, but by Christ. Sear does not price this type in his catalogue, calling it "extremely rare." Additionally, there is no record of an example having appeared at public auction for at least the past two decades. This example in such pristine condition and stunningly gorgeous - certainly the finest surviving specimen in existence - is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the specialist!