Phocas Leontia Decanummium Antioch Mint Large X ANNO II 603AD Byzantine Coin

Emperor: Phocas with Empress Leontia
Denomination: AE Decanummium (10 nummi)
Mint: Antioch
Date: 603 AD (Regnal Year 2)
Reference: SBV 675; DOC 98
Size: 17.4 mm
Weight: 2.53 g

Obverse: O N FOCA NE PE AV, Phocas standing facing on left holding globus cruciger and Leontia on right holding cruciform scepter; cross between their heads.
Translation: “Our Lord Phocas, Perpetual Augustus.” Imperial couple shown together under divine authority.

Reverse: Large X indicating ten nummi; ANNO to left meaning “year”; cross above; II to right signifying regnal year two; e in exergue for Antioch mint.
Translation: “Year Two,” value ten nummi, Antioch mint.

Description:
Certified authentic ancient artifact. Struck at Antioch during the second year of Phocas’ reign, this decanummium captures the brief joint portrait series of Phocas and his wife Leontia issued across the eastern mints. These coins were produced during a volatile period marked by war with Persia and increasing internal dissent that eventually led to Phocas’ overthrow in 610. The large X denomination and clear ANNO II date reflect the stabilized post-Justinian monetary system, while the mintmark “e” confirms Antioch as the issuing city. Decanummia of Phocas from Antioch are scarcer than their Constantinopolitan counterparts.

Condition: About very fine with clear imperial figures and strong X; lifetime authenticity guaranteed.