Byzantine Empire. Phocas (AD 602-610). Tremissis Konstantinopel 602–610 AD VICTORI FOCAS AVG / CONOB, Kreuz (Cross potent)

This tremissis hails from the reign of Emperor Phocas who ruled the Byzantine Empire from 602 to 610 AD, an era marked by political instability and military challenges. Phocas is often remembered as a usurper emperor whose turbulent rule ended violently. The coin bears the inscription 'VICTORI FOCAS AVG' and features a distinctive cross potent (a cross with crossbars at the end of each arm), a symbol often used in Byzantine coinage representing Christian faith and imperial authority. The tremissis, a small gold denomination, was commonly minted in Constantinople during this time, facilitating commerce and imperial payments. The coin’s craftsmanship not only served monetary purposes but also conveyed imperial propaganda and religious symbolism to the populace. Coins like these are essential for understanding the numismatic history of the Byzantine Empire and provide insight into the iconography, theology, and political narratives of the early 7th century.