Byzantine Empire · 969–1030 AD
Anonymous Christ Follis
The face of Christ on a coin — Byzantine devotion in bronze
Unique piece
Christ on the Coinage
Between approximately 969 and 1092 AD, the Byzantine Empire issued a remarkable series of bronze folles featuring the bust of Christ on the obverse instead of the emperor. These "anonymous folles" are classified by type (Class A through K) and represent a unique expression of Byzantine piety.
This Coin
This Class A anonymous follis shows a facing bust of Christ, holding a book of Gospels, with IC-XC (Jesus Christ) across the field. The reverse bears a four-line inscription: +IhSYS / XRISTYS / bASILEY / bASILE ("Jesus Christ, King of Kings"). These coins are among the most affordable ancient coins in existence, offering a tangible connection to medieval Constantinople.
Numismatic Details
- Denomination
- Follis
- Civilization
- Byzantine Empire
- Period
- 969–1030 AD
- Mint
- Constantinople
- Material
- Bronze
- Weight
- 10.5g
- Diameter
- 30mm
- Condition
- F (Fine)
Obverse
Facing bust of Christ Pantocrator, holding Gospels, IC-XC across field
Reverse
Four-line inscription: +IhSYS XRISTYS bASILEY bASILE
What You'll Receive
Premium Display Case
Your coin arrives in an elegant display case, ready to admire or gift.
Certificate of Authenticity
Each coin includes a signed certificate guaranteeing its authenticity.
Secure & Insured Shipping
Tracked and insured delivery to protect your piece of history.
