Semissis of Aelia Pulcheria
Unknown
415–453 · Gold · Medieval Art
Minted in Constantinople, the coin presents a profile of Aelia Pulcheria, who was made august at 14 and became the power behind the throne for most of the reign of her brother Theodosius II (r. 401 – 450) and chose his successor Marcian (r. 450 - 457). Extremely devout, she closed all pagan temples. She would become recognized as a saint.
- Artist
- Unknown
- Date
- 415–453
- Medium
- Gold
- Culture
- Byzantine
- Department
- Medieval Art
- Credit line
- Bequest of Nanette B. Kelekian, 2020
