An Historical Analysis of Byzantine Gold Coins Unearthed at Bakhtak Castle in Leilan

An Historical Analysis of Byzantine Gold Coins Unearthed at Bakhtak Castle in Leilan | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article An Historical Analysis of Byzantine Gold Coins Unearthed at Bakhtak Castle in Leilan hassan kazemnezhandasl This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3900488/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract The extensive damage inflicted by human factors on the western wall of Bakhtak Leilan Castle prompted the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Tourism of Iran to initiate an excavation plan. This plan aimed to assess the extent of destruction and facilitate restoration efforts, incorporating the site into its list of priority programs. Excavations conducted at the site unveiled the wall along with two historical towers from the ancient Parthian era. Additionally, a diverse array of pottery spanning the Parthian and Sassanid periods was uncovered. Notably, the excavation program in Trench G5 yielded gold coins dating back to the Byzantine period, attributed to Constantine X. The discovery of these Byzantine coins raises intriguing questions about their presence at this site. It prompts inquiries into their historical context, possibly shedding light on significant events such as the Byzantine Empire's military campaigns and wars in the Azerbaijan region. Bakhtak Leilan Castle Byzantine Empire Constantine X Romanus IV Malazgerd War Byzantine Numismatics Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Introduction Bakhtak Leilan Castle, listed as number 2780 among Iran's national monuments, stands in the southern region of East Azarbaijan province in northwestern Iran. Leilan, situated 20 km southeast of Malekan, 163 km southwest of Tabriz, and 678 km northwest of Tehran, holds significance as one of the cities within the province. The castle's western wall has faced substantial damage due to the communication road leading to Leilan city. This road, upon approaching Leilan, traverses through the western wall, continues through the area, and finally enters the city after passing the eastern wall. Covering an area approximately 1200 meters long by 1000 meters wide, the castle's larger side faces east while its smaller side is oriented north, forming a rectangular layout to the west of Leilan city. Apart from the sections affected by the Leilan city road, the castle's elevated inner surface has suffered significant damage, partly due to agricultural activities, particularly grape vineyards. Additionally, residential structures have encroached upon the northeastern front, while the presence of offices, including telecommunications, health, and oil companies, has further contributed to the destruction. An area named Qezal Tepe in the northeastern section has been entirely obliterated. Archaeological investigations, initially conducted by Mr. Wolfram Clais, commenced in this ancient castle. In recent decades, excavation programs spanning four seasons were executed to assess the extent of damage. Notably, these programs led to the discovery of the brick wall and two historical towers of the castle situated along the western side. The most recent excavation season focused on evaluating the destruction of the western wall, resulting in the uncovering of 23 Byzantine gold coins attributed to Constantine X. These coins were found enclosed within a pear-shaped clay pot in trench G5 at a depth of 35 cm from the castle wall's surface. The discovery of Byzantine coins within Bakhtak Castle in Leilan prompts a closer examination of historical events in the vicinity. Notably, scholars like Clais and Minorski speculate on the proximity of this area to significant events, such as the Byzantine army's attack on Ganzak in 624 AD. Throughout history, this historical city castle, known by varying names from the Parthian to Islamic periods, including "Genzag," "Janzeh," and "Shiz," has been referenced in Islamic texts. Moreover, the Iran-Roman wars, spanning around seven centuries, marked a series of conflicts between the Roman-Greek world and the Persian world, influencing ancient civilization profoundly. These wars, from Crassus' crossing of the Euphrates River in 53 BC during the late Roman Republic to the clashes during the Seljuk rule in the Islamic period, encapsulate significant historical confrontations with the Byzantine Empire, culminating in the defeat of the Byzantine army during Constantine X's reign. Typology and Significance of Byzantine Gold Coins The Byzantine Empire, an extension of the Eastern Roman Empire during Late Antiquity and the Middle Ages, found its zenith in Constantinople as its capital. Surviving the Western Roman Empire's fall in the 5th century AD, it endured until Constantinople succumbed to the Ottoman Empire in 1453. Byzantine Gold Coinage, minted primarily in Constantinople, evolved significantly throughout history. The standard gold coin of the later Roman Empire was the Nicephorus II (963-969 A.D.), continuing the solidus introduced by Constantine the Great in 312 A.D. Subsequently, designs changed markedly with other imperial family members portrayed on either obverse or reverse. These coins, struck at 72 to the Roman pound (approximately 4.5 g), retained the shape and weight of Justinian II (685-695 A.D.), featuring Christ on the obverse. During Nicephorus II's reign, the solidus transitioned to the stamenon nomisma, accompanied by the introduction of the lighter tetarteron nomisma. Over time, the stamenon nomisma's shape evolved, becoming thinner and larger. This transition to a concave shape, or scyphate, became distinct during Basil II's lengthy reign (976—1025 A.D.), fully manifesting in the era of Constantine IX (1042—1055 A.D.). Portraits of rulers on coins and seals symbolized the institution of monarchy, ensuring authenticity and legal validity. Constantine X Doukas, ruling from 1059 to 1067, marked the inception of the Doukid dynasty. His reign witnessed Norman conquests in Byzantine territories in Italy and Hungarian occupation of Belgrade. Additionally, he faced defeat by the Seljuk sultan Alp Arslan. Constantine X's ascension celebrated the civil aristocracy but was marred by his shortcomings as an emperor. His death in May 1067 led to a brief period of governance by his widow, Eudocia, alongside their sons-Michael VII and Constantine. Eudocia minted a nomisma (PI. LXI. 10) featuring her own likeness, a continuation of the representation of ruling figures on Byzantine coinage. General description of discovered coins The coin's obverse portrays Christ with a radiant halo around His head, seated on a throne and holding the Holy Bible. On the reverse, Constantine is depicted with a bearded countenance, holding Jesus' head in one hand and an orb and an acacia flower in the other. Description of Romanus IV Diogenes' Coin, Byzantine Emperor (1068 to 1071): This coin is attributed to Romanus IV Diogenes, who reigned as the Byzantine emperor from 1068 to 1071. Originally from Cappadocia, Romanus held a prominent military role as an army commander during Constantine X Doukas's rule. Following Constantine's death in 1067, his wife Eudocia Makrembolitissa acted as regent for their children. The Byzantine Empire faced threats from Seljuk attacks, leading Eudocia to marry Romanus in 1068, a strategic move to defend against this imminent threat. Consequently, Romanus ascended to the throne as Romanus IV. Romanus engaged in conflict against the Seljuks, achieving initial victories. However, in the decisive Battle of Manzikert in 1071 near Malazgirt, he suffered a significant defeat at the hands of Alp Arslan's forces and was captured. Subsequently, Eudocia, along with her son Michael VII, seized control and removed Romanus from power. Though Romanus secured his release by agreeing to pay tribute to the Seljuks, upon returning to Constantinople, he discovered that his adopted son Michael had assumed sole authority. He was arrested, and by the order of Michael VII, he was blinded. Romanus was then exiled to the island of Prote in the Sea of Marmara, where he passed away in 1072. Description of the Coin The coin features the depiction of Michael in the center, with Constantine on the left and Andronicus on the right. All three figures are portrayed without beards or mustaches. Michael is distinguishable by his facial resemblance to Jesus and Acacia. His brothers, Constantine and Andronicus, hold a cross, an orb, and an acacia in their hands. Michael is depicted as taller than his two brothers. The reverse design features Jesus Christ standing atop four pillars within a radiant halo, holding a cross. Romanus stands to His right, and Odisha to His left, facing each other. Constantine X issued two sets of coins, cataloged as numbers 920 and 921 under the Histamenon type. The initial category consists of two variations, discernible by the presence or absence of a tablet on Constantine's flagstaff. Another set, comprising three coin types numbered 922, 923, and 924, depicts the reign of Eudocia Makrembolitissa. The coins illustrate her alongside her two eldest sons, Michael VII and Constantis (1067), and later with her three sons alongside her second husband, Romanus IV (1068-71). Notably, the last coin presents the children in a prominent position on the obverse side. This arrangement signifies Romanus's significant role in governance and emphasizes Constantine X's affirmation of the succession laws, particularly regarding Eudocia's children. The Histamenon coins of Michael VII (925 and 926) and Nicephorus III (927-9) stand out due to the inferior quality of their gold content (Grierson 1982: p. 200). Conclusion The discovery of Byzantine coins from the era of Constantine X within Bakhtak Castle in Leilan, coupled with numerous historical accounts of Byzantine Empire attacks in the northwest of Iran during the reign of this Roman emperor, raises the possibility that the regions of west, southeast, and west Azerbaijan might have briefly fallen under Byzantine rule. Subsequently, these territories might have been compelled to retreat to their original lands due to the Seljuk invasions. The absence of continuous archaeological excavations poses a fundamental challenge in accurately comprehending the sequence of historical events in the region and the context behind the discovery of these coins within this ancient castle city. Hopefully, future archaeological endeavors will shed more light on the history concealed within this significant castle city. Declarations Author Contribution H.K. conceptualized, researched, and wrote the main manuscript text based on available library and internet resources, as well as the report in the archives of the Cultural Heritage Department of East Azarbaijan Province in Iran. Acknowledgments: I extend my sincere gratitude to Dr. Fariba Sharifian, a member of the Research Institute of Cultural Heritage and Tourism. Additionally, I am indebted to Mr. Mohammad Rehmatpour and Mr. Javad Jaleh Aghdam, both esteemed archaeology experts, for generously sharing their materials and insights, which greatly contributed to the preparation of this article. References Negrău, E.. A Few Observations Regarding Its Functions. The National University of Arts, 19, General Budişteanu Street, 010773, Bucharest, Romania. Grierson, P.. Byzantine Coins. Methuen & Co/ Univ of California Pr | c | ISBN: 0416713602/0520048970. Oddy, A. (1986). and Susan La Niece. Byzantine Gold Coins and Jewellery. Gold Bulletin. 19, (1). Millar, F.. A Greek Roman Empire: Power and Belief under Theodosius II (408–450). Berkeley and Los Angeles: University of California Press. ISBN 0-520-24703-5. James, L.. A Companion to Byzantium. Chichester: John Wiley. ISBN 1-4051-2654-X. Baynes, N., Hepburn, & St, H. (1948). Lawrence Beaufort Moss (Eds.). Byzantium: An Introduction to East Roman Civilization . Clarendon Press. Kazhdan, A., Petrovich, & Constable, G.. People and Power in Byzantium: An Introduction to Modern Byzantine Studies. Washington, DC: Dumbarton Oaks. ISBN 0-88402-103-3. Ostrogorsky, G.. History of the Byzantine State. New Brunswick: Rutgers University Press. ISBN 0-8135-1198-4. Kaldellis, A.. Hellenism in Byzantium: The Transformations of Greek Identity and the Reception of the Classical Tradition. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. ISBN 0-521-87688-5. Norwich, J. J.. A Short History of Byzantium. Ringwood, Vic.: Penguin. ISBN 978-0-14-025960-5. Byzantine Empire . Encyclopædia Britannica. Haywood, J.. Cassell's Atlas of World History. London: Cassell. ISBN 0-304-35757-X. Pounds, N. J., & Greville (1979). An Historical Geography of Europe, 1500–1840. CUP Archive, ISBN 0-521-22379-2. The End of the Byzantine Empire, 1081–1453. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Miller, W. (1969). Trebizond: The Last Greek Empire of the Byzantine Era: 1204–1461 (pp. 100–106). Argonaut. Wroth, W. (1908). Imperial Byzantine Coins in the British Museum. London. Mohammadi, Z.. The Role of Religious Components and Beliefs in the Victory of the Seljuk Army in the Battle of Muladzgerd. Science and Religion Research , Research Institute of Humanities and Cultural Studies, Year 5, Number 1, Iran, Spring and Summer 2013. Minorski, V. (1999). Geographical Names and Their Historical Roots in Atropaten (Mad). Translator: Roghaieh Behzadi. Tehran: Researcher Publications. Ibn Khurdad Beh (1992). Masalak and Mamaliks. Translated by Saeed Khakrand. Tehran: Hanfa Cultural Institute. Nauman, R. (1995). The Ruins of Takht Suleiman and Suleiman's Prison / Pargartan Faramarz Najd Samii . Iran's Cultural Heritage Organization. German Archaeological Board (1975). Archaeological Reports in Iran. Translated by Soroush Habibi. Tehran. Durant, W. (1963). The History of Civilization, The Age of Faith, The Height of the Rise of Byzantium. Translated by Abutaleb Sarmi. Tehran: Iqbal. Nizam al-Ulama Tabrizi. (2005). Muhammad Rafi bin Seyed Ali Asghar Tabatabai. Ghoroi Travelogue = Travelogue of Atbat Iraq. Correction of Harun and Homan . Gohar Manzum. Lestrange (1989). Historical Geography of Eastern Caliphate Lands. Translated by Mahmoud Erfani. Tehran: Scientific and Cultural Publishing Company. Mostofi, H.. Nazheh al-Qulob, Bas'i wa Ihtmam wa Tasahih . Tehran: Lestrange, 740 A.H. Khamachi, B. (1991). Eastern Azarbaijan Geographical Dictionary . Soroush Publications. Sadraei, A. (2002). Archaeological Report of Bakhtak Castle. Encyclopædia, B.. Constantine X Ducas. [Online] Available at: [ https://www.britannica.com/biography/Constantine-X-Ducas . Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-3900488","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":269760984,"identity":"3a9279f9-5757-4855-bb1a-bfba504b4de5","order_by":0,"name":"hassan kazemnezhandasl","email":"data:image/png;base64,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","orcid":"","institution":"Islamic Azad University, Abhar Branch","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"hassan","middleName":"","lastName":"kazemnezhandasl","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2024-01-26 16:22:38","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-3900488/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-3900488/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":50407204,"identity":"16b96450-1f43-4c03-aa0d-37518763d245","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-01-31 05:35:38","extension":"png","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":512549,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eFigure:5 +IhS XIS REX REGNANTInM\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIHS XIS REX REGNANTINM: Jesus Christ, king of those who rule:\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"5.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-3900488/v1/03b1658262d75caeea7ddcfc.png"},{"id":50407203,"identity":"8a18fcba-447b-4017-a506-423b3054b09f","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-01-31 05:35:38","extension":"png","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":464243,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eFigure:6 +KWN RACL' O DOVKAC\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConstantine X Doukas/Dukas\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"6.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-3900488/v1/d39517538e477d5876c30f01.png"},{"id":50407207,"identity":"12677fe2-f80e-428a-a574-6c2e3bb7aa08","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-01-31 05:35:38","extension":"png","order_by":3,"title":"Figure 3","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":539436,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eFigure:7 KWN MX AND\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCWN:\u003cem\u003eConstantios\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMX: \u003cem\u003eMichael.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAND: Andronikos\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"7.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-3900488/v1/56dca78c48d4223b5171ff7f.png"},{"id":50407411,"identity":"5d2b73bf-3a63-49a5-a973-9ff909cfef76","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-01-31 05:43:38","extension":"png","order_by":4,"title":"Figure 4","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":559750,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eFigure:8 +RWMANS IC XC EVDOKIA\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e+RWMANS: Romanos\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIC-XC:Greek abbreviation: \u003cem\u003eΙησούςΧριστός\u003c/em\u003e - Jesus Christ.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEVDOKIA: Eudokia\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"8.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-3900488/v1/6c4a9191fc7d641a2e80714c.png"},{"id":50407412,"identity":"b2245f27-cc0c-4bad-83d3-c19730dd961e","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-01-31 05:43:38","extension":"png","order_by":5,"title":"Figure 5","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":732417,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eFigure: 9 Histamenon Type Coins:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese coins of the Histamenon type are crafted from gold. The sequence of coin numbers is based on Grierson's categorization, ranging from numbers 920 to 929.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCoin Weights:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.\tNumber 920: 4.33 grams\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.\tNumber 921: 4.41 grams\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3.\tNumber 922: 4.41 grams\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4.\tNumber 923: 4.42 grams\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5.\tNumber 924: 4.40 grams\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e6.\tNumber 925: 4.44 grams\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e7.\tNumber 926: 4.39 grams\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e8.\tNumber 927: 4.34 grams\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e9.\tNumber 928: 4.08 grams\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e10.\tNumber 929: 4.29 grams\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"9.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-3900488/v1/d8280401f087b60de8cdd9dc.png"},{"id":50692025,"identity":"65e7d966-259a-4f85-95da-4a8d0c61aee0","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-02-05 21:37:23","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":2646144,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-3900488/v1/dd92c46b-7270-48f5-b09a-decb209ba7e5.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"An Historical Analysis of Byzantine Gold Coins Unearthed at Bakhtak Castle in Leilan","fulltext":[{"header":"Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eBakhtak Leilan Castle, listed as number 2780 among Iran\u0026apos;s national monuments, stands in the southern region of East Azarbaijan province in northwestern Iran. Leilan, situated 20 km southeast of Malekan, 163 km southwest of Tabriz, and 678 km northwest of Tehran, holds significance as one of the cities within the province.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe castle\u0026apos;s western wall has faced substantial damage due to the communication road leading to Leilan city. This road, upon approaching Leilan, traverses through the western wall, continues through the area, and finally enters the city after passing the eastern wall. Covering an area approximately 1200 meters long by 1000 meters wide, the castle\u0026apos;s larger side faces east while its smaller side is oriented north, forming a rectangular layout to the west of Leilan city.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApart from the sections affected by the Leilan city road, the castle\u0026apos;s elevated inner surface has suffered significant damage, partly due to agricultural activities, particularly grape vineyards. Additionally, residential structures have encroached upon the northeastern front, while the presence of offices, including telecommunications, health, and oil companies, has further contributed to the destruction. An area named Qezal Tepe in the northeastern section has been entirely obliterated.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArchaeological investigations, initially conducted by Mr. Wolfram Clais, commenced in this ancient castle. In recent decades, excavation programs spanning four seasons were executed to assess the extent of damage. Notably, these programs led to the discovery of the brick wall and two historical towers of the castle situated along the western side. The most recent excavation season focused on evaluating the destruction of the western wall, resulting in the uncovering of 23 Byzantine gold coins attributed to Constantine X. These coins were found enclosed within a pear-shaped clay pot in trench G5 at a depth of 35 cm from the castle wall\u0026apos;s surface.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe discovery of Byzantine coins within Bakhtak Castle in Leilan prompts a closer examination of historical events in the vicinity. Notably, scholars like Clais and Minorski speculate on the proximity of this area to significant events, such as the Byzantine army\u0026apos;s attack on Ganzak in 624 AD.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout history, this historical city castle, known by varying names from the Parthian to Islamic periods, including \u0026quot;Genzag,\u0026quot; \u0026quot;Janzeh,\u0026quot; and \u0026quot;Shiz,\u0026quot; has been referenced in Islamic texts. Moreover, the Iran-Roman wars, spanning around seven centuries, marked a series of conflicts between the Roman-Greek world and the Persian world, influencing ancient civilization profoundly. These wars, from Crassus\u0026apos; crossing of the Euphrates River in 53 BC during the late Roman Republic to the clashes during the Seljuk rule in the Islamic period, encapsulate significant historical confrontations with the Byzantine Empire, culminating in the defeat of the Byzantine army during Constantine X\u0026apos;s reign.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTypology and Significance of Byzantine Gold Coins\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Byzantine Empire, an extension of the Eastern Roman Empire during Late Antiquity and the Middle Ages, found its zenith in Constantinople as its capital. Surviving the Western Roman Empire\u0026apos;s fall in the 5th century AD, it endured until Constantinople succumbed to the Ottoman Empire in 1453.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eByzantine Gold Coinage, minted primarily in Constantinople, evolved significantly throughout history. The standard gold coin of the later Roman Empire was the Nicephorus II (963-969 A.D.), continuing the solidus introduced by Constantine the Great in 312 A.D. Subsequently, designs changed markedly with other imperial family members portrayed on either obverse or reverse. These coins, struck at 72 to the Roman pound (approximately 4.5 g), retained the shape and weight of Justinian II (685-695 A.D.), featuring Christ on the obverse.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring Nicephorus II\u0026apos;s reign, the solidus transitioned to the stamenon nomisma, accompanied by the introduction of the lighter tetarteron nomisma. Over time, the stamenon nomisma\u0026apos;s shape evolved, becoming thinner and larger. This transition to a concave shape, or scyphate, became distinct during Basil II\u0026apos;s lengthy reign (976\u0026mdash;1025 A.D.), fully manifesting in the era of Constantine IX (1042\u0026mdash;1055 A.D.).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePortraits of rulers on coins and seals symbolized the institution of monarchy, ensuring authenticity and legal validity. Constantine X Doukas, ruling from 1059 to 1067, marked the inception of the Doukid dynasty. His reign witnessed Norman conquests in Byzantine territories in Italy and Hungarian occupation of Belgrade. Additionally, he faced defeat by the Seljuk sultan Alp Arslan.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConstantine X\u0026apos;s ascension celebrated the civil aristocracy but was marred by his shortcomings as an emperor. His death in May 1067 led to a brief period of governance by his widow, Eudocia, alongside their sons-Michael VII and Constantine. Eudocia minted a nomisma (PI. LXI. 10) featuring her own likeness, a continuation of the representation of ruling figures on Byzantine coinage.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"General description of discovered coins","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe coin\u0026apos;s obverse portrays Christ with a radiant halo around His head, seated on a throne and holding the Holy Bible.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the reverse, Constantine is depicted with a bearded countenance, holding Jesus\u0026apos; head in one hand and an orb and an acacia flower in the other.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDescription of Romanus IV Diogenes\u0026apos; Coin, Byzantine Emperor (1068 to 1071):\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis coin is attributed to Romanus IV Diogenes, who reigned as the Byzantine emperor from 1068 to 1071. Originally from Cappadocia, Romanus held a prominent military role as an army commander during Constantine X Doukas\u0026apos;s rule. Following Constantine\u0026apos;s death in 1067, his wife Eudocia Makrembolitissa acted as regent for their children. The Byzantine Empire faced threats from Seljuk attacks, leading Eudocia to marry Romanus in 1068, a strategic move to defend against this imminent threat. Consequently, Romanus ascended to the throne as Romanus IV.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRomanus engaged in conflict against the Seljuks, achieving initial victories. However, in the decisive Battle of Manzikert in 1071 near Malazgirt, he suffered a significant defeat at the hands of Alp Arslan\u0026apos;s forces and was captured. Subsequently, Eudocia, along with her son Michael VII, seized control and removed Romanus from power.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThough Romanus secured his release by agreeing to pay tribute to the Seljuks, upon returning to Constantinople, he discovered that his adopted son Michael had assumed sole authority. He was arrested, and by the order of Michael VII, he was blinded. Romanus was then exiled to the island of Prote in the Sea of Marmara, where he passed away in 1072.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Description of the Coin","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe coin features the depiction of Michael in the center, with Constantine on the left and Andronicus on the right. All three figures are portrayed without beards or mustaches. Michael is distinguishable by his facial resemblance to Jesus and Acacia. His brothers, Constantine and Andronicus, hold a cross, an orb, and an acacia in their hands. Michael is depicted as taller than his two brothers.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reverse design features Jesus Christ standing atop four pillars within a radiant halo, holding a cross. Romanus stands to His right, and Odisha to His left, facing each other.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConstantine X issued two sets of coins, cataloged as numbers 920 and 921 under the Histamenon type. The initial category consists of two variations, discernible by the presence or absence of a tablet on Constantine\u0026apos;s flagstaff.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnother set, comprising three coin types numbered 922, 923, and 924, depicts the reign of Eudocia Makrembolitissa. The coins illustrate her alongside her two eldest sons, Michael VII and Constantis (1067), and later with her three sons alongside her second husband, Romanus IV (1068-71). Notably, the last coin presents the children in a prominent position on the obverse side.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis arrangement signifies Romanus\u0026apos;s significant role in governance and emphasizes Constantine X\u0026apos;s affirmation of the succession laws, particularly regarding Eudocia\u0026apos;s children. The Histamenon coins of Michael VII (925 and 926) and Nicephorus III (927-9) stand out due to the inferior quality of their gold content (Grierson 1982: p. 200).\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe discovery of Byzantine coins from the era of Constantine X within Bakhtak Castle in Leilan, coupled with numerous historical accounts of Byzantine Empire attacks in the northwest of Iran during the reign of this Roman emperor, raises the possibility that the regions of west, southeast, and west Azerbaijan might have briefly fallen under Byzantine rule. Subsequently, these territories might have been compelled to retreat to their original lands due to the Seljuk invasions.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe absence of continuous archaeological excavations poses a fundamental challenge in accurately comprehending the sequence of historical events in the region and the context behind the discovery of these coins within this ancient castle city. Hopefully, future archaeological endeavors will shed more light on the history concealed within this significant castle city.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003ch2\u003eAuthor Contribution\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eH.K. conceptualized, researched, and wrote the main manuscript text based on available library and internet resources, as well as the report in the archives of the Cultural Heritage Department of East Azarbaijan Province in Iran.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAcknowledgments:\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eI extend my sincere gratitude to Dr. Fariba Sharifian, a member of the Research Institute of Cultural Heritage and Tourism. Additionally, I am indebted to Mr. Mohammad Rehmatpour and Mr. Javad Jaleh Aghdam, both esteemed archaeology experts, for generously sharing their materials and insights, which greatly contributed to the preparation of this article.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNegrău, E.. A Few Observations Regarding Its Functions. The National University of Arts, 19, General Budişteanu Street, 010773, Bucharest, Romania.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGrierson, P.. \u003cem\u003eByzantine Coins.\u003c/em\u003e Methuen \u0026amp; Co/ Univ of California Pr | c | ISBN: 0416713602/0520048970.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOddy, A. (1986). and Susan La Niece. 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Gohar Manzum.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLestrange (1989). \u003cem\u003eHistorical Geography of Eastern Caliphate Lands.\u003c/em\u003e Translated by Mahmoud Erfani. Tehran: Scientific and Cultural Publishing Company.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMostofi, H.. \u003cem\u003eNazheh al-Qulob, Bas'i wa Ihtmam wa Tasahih\u003c/em\u003e. Tehran: Lestrange, 740 A.H.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKhamachi, B. (1991). \u003cem\u003eEastern Azarbaijan Geographical Dictionary\u003c/em\u003e. Soroush Publications.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSadraei, A. (2002). \u003cem\u003eArchaeological Report of Bakhtak Castle.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEncyclop\u0026aelig;dia, B.. Constantine X Ducas. [Online] Available at: [\u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://www.britannica.com/biography/Constantine-X-Ducas\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"https://www.britannica.com/biography/Constantine-X-Ducas\" targettype=\"URL\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Bakhtak Leilan Castle, Byzantine Empire, Constantine X, Romanus IV, Malazgerd War, Byzantine Numismatics","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-3900488/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-3900488/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eThe extensive damage inflicted by human factors on the western wall of Bakhtak Leilan Castle prompted the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Tourism of Iran to initiate an excavation plan. This plan aimed to assess the extent of destruction and facilitate restoration efforts, incorporating the site into its list of priority programs.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eExcavations conducted at the site unveiled the wall along with two historical towers from the ancient Parthian era. Additionally, a diverse array of pottery spanning the Parthian and Sassanid periods was uncovered. Notably, the excavation program in Trench G5 yielded gold coins dating back to the Byzantine period, attributed to Constantine X.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe discovery of these Byzantine coins raises intriguing questions about their presence at this site. It prompts inquiries into their historical context, possibly shedding light on significant events such as the Byzantine Empire's military campaigns and wars in the Azerbaijan region.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"An Historical Analysis of Byzantine Gold Coins Unearthed at Bakhtak Castle in Leilan","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2024-01-31 05:35:33","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-3900488/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"b1dfd707-dd8e-4922-9afa-0960b8b543ae","owner":[],"postedDate":"January 31st, 2024","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T21:29:16+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2024-01-31 05:35:33","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-3900488","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-3900488","identity":"rs-3900488","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"qtupq5eGEP_6zYnWcrvyt","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}