Nicephorus II Phocas, AE Nummus (Follis), Constantinople Mint, 963-969 AD

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Description

Nicephorus II Phocas, AE Nummus (Follis) (bronze, 8.66g, 25mm), Constantinople Mint, 963-969 AD 
Obv: ⧾ nICIFR bASILЄV [RW]; crowned bust facing, wearing loros, holding cruciform sceptre and globe surmounted by trefoil
Rev:  + nICIF ЄN ΘЄω bASILЄVS Rω-mAIωn in four lines
Ref: Sear 1783; DOC 7 Rarity/Choice: Common, VF (nice earthen highlights on dark brown patina)
Note: Nicephorus II Phocas is renowned for his military campaigns, particularly against the Arabs. He recaptured Crete and extended Byzantine control in the East, earning him the title “the Pale Death of the Saracens.” His reign saw significant military and fiscal reforms aimed at strengthening the empire’s defenses and economy.  Nicephorus was deeply religious and promoted the construction of monasteries and churches, aligning his rule closely with the Orthodox Church.  The inscription around the bust reads “nICIFR bAS[ILЄV RW],” which is an abbreviated form of “Nicephorus Basileus Romaion,” meaning “Nicephorus, Emperor of the Romans.” “+ nICIF ЄN ΘЄω bASILЄVS Rω-mAIωn,” which translates to “Nicephorus, by the grace of God, Emperor of the Romans.” The Æ Nummus of Nicephorus II Phocas is a valuable artifact reflecting the emperor’s strong military leadership, devout Christian faith, and efforts to consolidate his rule through religious and imperial symbolism. The detailed depiction of his crowned bust with imperial regalia on the obverse, and the concise yet powerful inscription on the reverse, highlight the central themes of his reign: authority, divinely sanctioned rule, and the defense and expansion of the Byzantine Empire. This coin is not only a piece of currency but also a testament to the era’s intricate blend of politics, religion, and artistry.

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