Byzantine Gold Solidus, Irene as Regent, 790 CE

Byzantine Gold Solidus, Irene as Regent, 790 CE

In 799 CE Charlemagne saved Pope Leo III from attackers who tried to blind him and pull out his tongue.

In 797 CE, after back and forth coup attempts between them, Irene had her sons eyes gouged out, becoming the only female sole reigning monarch in Roman history.

Obverse, Ehirinei Basilissei-

Queen Irene.

Reverse, with son.

Tap center for reverse.

Tap 6 oclock for text.