Anonymous Folles, time Romanus III, AE Follis, Constantinople Mint, circa 1028-1034

$85.00

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SKU: B1.25 Category:

Description

Anonymous Folles, time Romanus III, AE Follis (bronze, 14.14g, 28.5mm), Constantinople Mint, circa 1028-1034
Obv:  Facing bust of Christ Pantokrator, holding book of Gospels
Rev: Large cross pommée set upon three steps; IS XS above crossbar; BASILЄ/ BASILЄ in two lines below
Ref:  SB 1823;  DOC B.1-64 Rarity/Choice: Common, VF (encrusted earth, lovely red-brown patina and nice portrait)
Note:  This coin inscription reinforces the Byzantine belief in the divine right of the emperor, portraying him as a servant of Christ and ruler of the Byzantine Empire. The coin’s anonymity suggests it was issued as part of a currency reform or during a period of transition between rulers. It exemplifies the fusion of religious and political symbolism that characterized Byzantine coinage during this era.