gold solidus

The Roman Empire began fragmenting in the 5th century AD. However, as the Western Empire fell in c. 376-476, the Eastern Roman Empire began to thrive. The name Byzantine Empire, or Byzantium became more popular than calling it the Eastern Roman Empire. There was also a clear power shift from Rome to the new capital city of Constantinople. In short, it was the beginning of a new era. The age when the Byzantine Empire Gold Solidus became a symbol of this new dynasty. One that would last for over a thousand years. Ultimately, falling to the Ottoman Empire in 1453.

Christianity became the official religion. This caused a major cultural shift. In addition, the official language changed from Latin to Greek. All of this, because the Eastern Orthodox church became the dominant power.