Byzantine Empire, Constantinople mint, Constantine X, ca. 1059 to 1067 CE. A stunning pendant comprised of a gold AU Solidus/Histamenon of Constantine X Ducas (also Doukas, 1006-1067), a Byzantine emperor from 1059 to 1067 and the successor to Isaac I Comnenus, in an 18K gold setting. Obverse: Christ enthroned. Reverse: Emperor wearing a regal apparel and a luxurious beaded headdress, holding a long staff and globus and encircled by a double 'beaded' border. A beautiful pendant comprised of a gorgeous ancient gold coin in a modern 18K gold setting. Size: gold coin measures 1.25" W x 1" H (3.2 cm x 2.5 cm); modern cord measures 26" L (66 cm); weight of coin + setting 6.2 grams Interestingly, Constantine X’s accession was a victory for the civil aristocracy; however, sadly he was not the most successful emperor. Having reduced the size of the army and let his guard down during a period when the Seljuq Turks were advancing into the eastern provinces. As a result, the sultan Alp Arslan overran Armenia (1064–65) and subsequently attacked Caesarea (1067). The Hungarians then occupied Belgrade in 1064, and the Pechenegs (Patzinaks) and Uzes (Kumans) crossed the Danube River and destroyed the Balkan provinces, infiltrating Greece. Finally, the Normans in Italy were quickly conquering the last Byzantine possessions. Provenance: ex private Brooklyn, New York, USA collection All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience. #136637