Preview
Creation Date
976–1030/1035
Geography
Uncertain mint
Culture
Byzantine
Medium
Copper
Dimensions
25 mm
0.34 oz. (9.51 g)
Credit Line
Gift of Brad Hostetler, 2022
Accession Number
2022.32
Condition
As of 11/4/24: The obverse of this coin has been subject to significant wear. Christ's face and head are completely obscured, with no details remaining visible. Christ's surroundings are preserved much better; the details of his cruciform halo and decorated book can be identified. However, the letter inscription encircling Christ has faded and worn away so that none of the letters remain legible,
The reverse of this coin has undergone significant wear around the edges and some oxidation of the metal to a green color. However, the letters themselves in all 4 lines remain in high relief and easy to decipher. The top line of text on the reverse is cut off.
References
Grierson, Philip. Catalogue of the Byzantine Coins in the Dumbarton Oaks Collection and in the Whittemore Collection, vol.3, Leo III to Nicephorus III (717-1081). Washington DC: Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection, no.A2.41, p.668-669.
Description
The obverse of this follis depicts a bearded bust of Christ facing forward. He wears a tunic and himation (Greek wrap), and his head is encircled by a cruciform halo with ornamentation in each field. Christ raises his right hand in blessing and holds an ornate book in his left hand.
The reverse of this follis depicts a 4-line Greek inscription with a small pellet ornament centered below.