Nephew of Justinian I, Justin lacked his uncle`s strength in governing. Within five years, much of his uncle`s conquests were lost. Justin`s wife Sophia was a major influence over the ruler. Her strong presence is evident in Justin`s coinage, as she is often seen seated next to him on the designs. Justin suffered a mental illness during the final years of his reign and appointed Tiberius Constantine as his regent. Tiberius later succeeded him.