Anonymous Folles, time of Romanus IV, AE Follis, Constantinopole Mint, Circa 1068-1071 AD

$65.00

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SKU: B1.15 Categories: ,

Description

Anonymous Folles, time of Romanus IV, AE Follis (bronze, 5.51g, 27mm), Constantinopole Mint, Circa 1068-1071 AD
Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ facing, wearing tunic and pallium, raising his right hand in benediction and holding book of Gospels in his left; in fields, IC – XC
Rev: Nimbate bust of the Virgin Mary facing, orans, wearing pallium and maphorium
Ref: SB 1867 Rarity/Choice: Common, VF (beautiful earthen highlights)
Note:These coins were issued anonymously, characteristic of a period of Byzantine coinage reform. Romanus IV, facing challenges from both external invasion by the Seljuk Turks and internal instability, sought to stabilize the currency through these coins. Featuring typical iconography such as depictions of Christ on the reverse, these folles emphasized the Byzantine Empire’s Christian identity and the emperor’s divine role. However, Romanus IV’s reign ended in defeat at the Battle of Manzikert in 1071, leading to his capture and subsequent instability in the Byzantine Empire. These coins offer insights into the economic and political circumstances of the time, highlighting the efforts to maintain stability amidst turmoil.