This large bronze follis belongs to the famous “Anonymous” issues of the Byzantine Empire, struck during the Middle Byzantine period when the emperor chose not to place his own portrait on the coinage. Instead, the obverse features a powerful religious image: Christ facing forward, with nimbus halo, holding the book of the Gospels and raising His right hand in blessing.

The reverse carries the bold inscription in Greek:

+ IhSUS XRISTUS bASILEU bASILE

meaning “Jesus Christ, King of Kings.”

These coins circulated widely throughout the empire and beyond, reflecting the deep connection between faith and state in Byzantine society. They are among the most recognizable and meaningful medieval coin types, connecting numismatics, history, and early Christian art.

This example shows strong detail for the type, especially in the legend on the reverse, with natural dark patina and expected wear from circulation nearly 1,000 years ago. An excellent historical piece and a classic addition to any collection of Byzantine or medieval coinage.

Guaranteed authentic.

Provenance: Ex. Tom Wood collection, North Carolina. Coins of the Holyland