BYZANTINE GOLD COIN / SPOON. CONSTANTINE X. 1060s 7.6g. Average 19+ carat. Accompanied by assay report. Start Price GBP 200.00 Current Price GBP 200.00 Time Left - Bid Count 1 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Monday, December 01, 2008 End Time Monday, December 08, 2008 Location London, London See more about 'BYZANTINE GOLD COIN / SPOON. CONSTANTINE X. 1060s' Description An intriguing antique spoon made from a Byzantine gold coin (solidus?) from the reign of Emperor Constantine X (1060s).  In excellent condition as I hope the photos show.  The item is some 4 1/4 ins long (11 cms) and weighs 7.6 grams.  I believe the conversion of this coin into a spoon is of relatively ancient work - partially because of the style of the twist of the handle.  For that reason, I recently had the three elements assayed to find that the coin assays at 78% gold, 18% silver and 4% copper; the handle at 81% gold, 9.0% silver and 10.0% copper; and the ball 79% gold, 14% silver and 7% copper (the London assay office report will be sent with the spoon).  To me this supports the idea all the spoon is old because at 81% the handle is equivalent to 19.44 carats - too high I would suggest, for production of the last two or three hundred years where 18c is more usual.  Still I leave that to your intepretation.  What we do have is a venerable antique and usable - if you dare.  A very fine item to match with the Academy's current Byzantium exhibition. Place a Bid!