Byzantine Anonymous Class A3 AE Follis – Christ Pantokrator (Circa 1020-1028 AD)

About this piece

  Travel back over 1,000 years to the golden age of the Byzantine Empire. This stunning Bronze (AE) Follis belongs to the famous "Anonymous Follis" series. In a powerful political and religious statement, the emperors of this era removed their own portraits from copper coinage. Instead, they dedicated the currency entirely to Jesus Christ. Struck at the legendary mint of Constantinople, this specific coin comes from the Class A3 series. It represents the final years of the joint reign of Basil II (The Bulgar Slayer) and Constantine VIII, continuing into Constantine’s sole reign. Boasting a heavy, robust weight of 10.91g and a wide 29mm diameter, this premium specimen features exceptional detail and an incredible historical pedigree.  VF Coin Specifications & Attribution

• Empire: Byzantine Empire
• Emperors: Basil II and Constantine VIII (formerly misattributed in older literature to Constantine VII)
• Date: Circa 1020–1028 AD
• Mint: Constantinople (Modern-day Istanbul, Turkey)
• Denomination: Class A3 AE Follis (Anonymous Type)
• Material: Bronze (AE)
• Weight: 10.91 grams
• Diameter: 29 mm
• Reference Catalog: Sear Byzantine Coins and Their Values (SBCV) #1818
• XRF:  Ir 1.12%, Fe .355%, Cu: 98.41%

Detailed Iconography Obverse (Front): The Face of Christ Features a striking, facing bust of Christ Pantokrator (Ruler of All), bearded and wearing a tunic and himation. He raises his right hand in a holy gesture of benediction (blessing) while cradling a richly ornamented book of Gospels in his left. His head is framed by a nimbus cruciger (cross-halo).

• Inscriptions: Features the Greek abbreviations IC (left) and XC (right) for Iesous Christos, flanked by the circular legend +EMMANOVHΛ (Emmanuel / "God is with us").

Reverse (Back): The King of Kings Features a bold, clear four-line religious proclamation, heavily decorated with specific geometric ornaments stamped directly above and below the text.

• Legend: + IhSϤS / XRISTϤS / bASILЄϤ / bASILЄ
• Translation: "Jesus Christ, King of Kings"

Why Add This Coin To Your Collection?

• 100% Guaranteed Authentic: A genuine artifact minted during the medieval Crusades era.
• Impressive Eye Appeal: Excellent weight (10.91g) that feels substantial in the hand, with crisp, legible legends.
• Perfect Gift: A foundational piece for ancient coin collectors, history buffs, and those interested in early Christian history.