Sale: CNG 61, Lot: 2181. Closing Date: Sep 25, 2002. THE EMPIRE. CONSTANTINE IX. BID Estimate $3000 CONSTANTINE IX. 1042-1055. AR Miliaresion (2.41 gm). Constantinople mint. +ECPOI NA CWZOIC, the Virgin orans, standing on footstool, wearing pallium and maphorium / EVCEBH MONOMAXON, Constantine standing, in military uniform consisting of cuirass, tunic, cloak and high boots, holding long cross and scabbard containing sword. DOC III 7; SB 1834. Toned EF. ($3000) The obverse Virgin of this splendid miliaresion is reminiscent of the Virgin Hagiosoritissa relief now at Dumbarton Oaks. This, as well as the celebrated mosaic portraits of Constantine IX and his consort Zoe in Hagia Sophia, vividly demonstrate the high artistic standard the imperial workshop at Constantinople could still achieve in the mid-11th century.Copyright © CNG 2002 Used by permission of Classical Numismatic Group, www.cngcoins.com. Lot sold for $3250, plus buyers fees.