Katalog
| Emittent | Byzantine Empire |
|---|---|
| Jahr | 1028-1042 |
| Typ | Standard circulation coin |
| Nennwert | Follis (1⁄288) |
| Währung | Second Solidus Nomisma (720-1092) |
| Material | Bronze |
| Gewicht | 9.9 g |
| Durchmesser | 32 mm |
| Dicke | |
| Form | Round (irregular) |
| Prägetechnik | Hammered |
| Ausrichtung | |
| Stempelschneider | |
| Im Umlauf bis | |
| Referenz(en) | BCV#1823, DOC III-2#B |
| Aversbeschreibung | Bust of Christ facing, bearded, with nimbate cross bearing a square in each limb of nimbus cross and a pellet in each upper quarter, raising right hand in blessing, holding with left hand a book of gospels inscribed with a dot in centre of dotted square. |
|---|---|
| Aversschrift | |
| Averslegende |
EMMANOVHL IC XC (Translation: EMMANOVHL = God is with us I(h)S(us) X(ri)S(tós) = Jesus Christ) |
| Reversbeschreibung | Letterings on either side of a cross with a pellet at each end, on a base set on two steps. |
| Reversschrift | |
| Reverslegende |
IS XS BASILE BASILE (Translation: Jesus Christ King of Kings) |
| Rand | |
| Prägestätte | |
| Auflage |
ND (1028-1042) - Constantinopolis - |
| Numisquare-ID | 7489794610 |
| Zusätzliche Informationen |
Historical Context: The Follis - Anonymous Class B Constantinopolis, struck between 1028 and 1042, represents a pivotal period in Byzantine numismatics, spanning the reigns of Romanos III, Michael IV, Michael V, and Constantine IX. This era was marked by political instability and a succession of emperors, leading to a significant shift in coinage policy. The decision to issue "anonymous" bronzes, devoid of the reigning emperor's name or portrait, underscored a deliberate move to emphasize divine authority over individual imperial legitimacy. By placing Christ Pantocrator prominently on the obverse, the empire sought to project stability and divine sanction during a tumultuous time, reinforcing the sacred nature of imperial rule and the state itself.
Artistry: This Follis belongs to the distinctive Byzantine stylistic school of religious iconography. While no individual engraver is attributed, the design adheres to established ecclesiastical prototypes. The obverse features a hieratic depiction of Christ Pantocrator, nimbate, enthroned, raising His right hand in benediction and holding the Gospels in His left. This portrayal emphasizes spiritual power and majesty rather than naturalistic representation. The reverse typically displays an ornate cross, often adorned with pellets or stars in the angles, accompanied by the inscription IC XC NI KA, signifying "Jesus Christ Conquers." The overall artistic execution is weighty, designed to convey profound religious meaning and imperial authority.
Technical/Grading: The Follis Class B, weighing approximately 9.9 grams and measuring 32 mm, is a substantial bronze issue. Key high-points for preservation include Christ's facial features, the details of the Gospels, and the throne on the obverse. On the reverse, the central cross and the lettering IC XC NI KA are critical. Technical strike quality often varies; these coins were frequently struck on somewhat irregular flans, leading to off-centering or areas of weakness. Strike pressure could be inconsistent, resulting in partial legends or indistinct details, particularly around the periphery. The bronze alloy, while robust, is susceptible to surface corrosion, which can obscure finer elements and impact overall grade.