Cross of Justin II
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The Cross of Justin II is a processional cross dating from the sixth century that is kept in the Treasury in St. Peter's Basilica, in Vatican City. It is also one of the oldest surviving claimed reliq
Front side of the Cross of Justin II
A different, and far humbler, small cross of gold foil, with rubbings of coins of Justin II and holes for nails or thread, Italian, 6th century
Justin II
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Justin II was Eastern Roman emperor from 565 until 578. He was the nephew of Justinian I and the husband of Sophia, the niece of Justinian's wife Theodora.
Cross of Justin II
…jewelled cross, silver-gilt and adorned with jewels in gold settings, given to the people of Rome by the Emperor of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire, Justin II, who reigned from 565 to 578 in Constantinople, and his wife, the Empress Sophia. The cross bears a Latin inscription reading: ligno quo Christus humanum…
Solidus of Justin II marked: d·n· iustinus p·p· aug·
Solidus minted in Alexandria, Egypt c. 570
Justin II ordering the arrest of Justin the Consul. Scene from the 12th century Manasses Chronicle.
100 nummi coin of Justin II minted in Carthage. Helmeted and cuirass-wearing facing bust, holding shield Monogram; cross above, 100 below