Michael VII Ducas, AE Follis, Constantinople, AD 1071-1078

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Description

Byzantine, Michael VII Ducas, AE Follis (bronze, 5.05g, 25.5mm), Constantinople, AD 1071-1078
Obv: Bust of Christ facing, bearded and with cross behind head, wearing tunic and himation, raising his right hand in blessing, and holding book of Gospels in his left hand, in upper fields, IC XC, in right and left field, six-pointed star
Rev: Crowned bust of Michael VII facing, wearing loros, holding labarum in his right hand and globus cruciger in his left.
Ref: DOC 14b; Sear 1878 Rarity/Choice: Common, aVF

 

Note: This Byzantine histamenon of Michael VII Ducas shows the empire’s deep union of faith and rule. The obverse depicts Christ Pantocrator, blessing and holding the Gospels, a powerful statement of divine sanction over imperial authority. On the reverse, Michael VII appears crowned, with symbols of power, the labarum and globus cruciger—asserting his role as Christ’s earthly representative. Issued during a reign marked by economic strain and military decline, these coins served as both currency and a reminder of the emperor’s sacred legitimacy.

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