DN IVSTINVS PP AVG, pearl-diademed, draped, cuirassed bust right / Large Epsilon, B right. 13mm, 1.86 grams. Constantinople mint. DOC 18B.

Justin I (c. 450–527 CE) was a Byzantine emperor who ruled from 518 to 527 CE. Born into a peasant family in the Balkans, he rose through the military ranks in Constantinople thanks to his discipline and loyalty, eventually becoming commander of the imperial guard. After the death of Emperor Anastasius I, Justin used his influence and resources to secure his own election as emperor. Though largely uneducated, Justin was a capable leader who restored ties with the Roman Church and helped stabilize the empire. His reign set the stage for his far more famous nephew and successor, Justinian I, who he adopted and groomed for power. Justin’s rule marked the beginning of the Justinian dynasty and a new era for the Byzantine Empire.