Romanus III, AE Follis, Constantinople, AD 1028-1034

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Description

Byzantine, Romanus III Argyrus, AE Follis (bronze, 12.2g, 29mm), Constantinople, AD 1028-1034
Obv: + EMMA-NOVHΛ around, IC-XC to right and left of bust of Christ facing with nimbate cross behind head, square in each limb of nimbus cross, holding book of Gospels
Rev: IS-XS / BAS-ILE / BAS-ILE; to left and right above and below cross with dots at the ends, on three steps
Ref: SB 1823 Rarity/Choice: Coomon, VF (beauty)

 

Note: Tis Follis belongs to the reign of Romanus III Argyrus, who rose to power through marriage to the elderly Empress Zoë. His rule was marked by costly building projects and attempts at military campaigns, most notably a failed expedition against the Arabs in Syria that exposed the empire’s weakening army. Despite his ambitions, Romanus struggled with court intrigue and administrative decline, ultimately being deposed and likely murdered. His coinage reflects the continuation of Byzantine religious imagery, reinforcing the idea of Christ as the supreme ruler while the emperor’s authority waned.

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