Marcian                                         450 - 457

Marcian succeeded Theodosius II upon the emperor's accidental death. It appears a commander by the name of Arbadur was key in securing the post for Marcian and convinced Pulcheria, Theodosius's widow, to not only confirm the nomination but also become his nominal wife, a purely political relationship that was only to strengthen the legitimacy of Marcian's claim to the throne. They would lead separate lives from then on. Marcian proved a capable manager for the eastern seat of the empire and died without incident in 457 of old age.

Obv-DN MARCIANVS PF AVG Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right. Rev-Marcians Monogram with a cross in circle above.