Byzantine Folles of Justinian I

Byzantine Empire · 527-565 AD

A thick, heavy Byzantine bronze follis featuring a facing bust of Emperor Justinian I on the obverse with a large 'M' denomination mark on the reverse.

Country: Byzantine Empire
Year: 527-565 AD
Denomination: Follis (40 Nummi)
Metal: Bronze
Grade: Fine to Very Fine with typical earthen deposits and wear on high points

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Identified September 6, 2026More byzantine empire coins →

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Overview

A thick, heavy Byzantine bronze follis featuring a facing bust of Emperor Justinian I on the obverse with a large 'M' denomination mark on the reverse.

Historical significance

Emperor Justinian I is one of the most prominent rulers of the Byzantine Empire, known for attempting to reconquer the Western Roman Empire, rewriting Roman law (Corpus Juris Civilis), and constructing the Hagia Sophia. His monetary reform introduced large bronze folles which served as the primary everyday currency of the empire.

Obverse (front)

Helmeted and cuirassed bust facing forward, holding a globus cruciger and a shield, surrounded by the legend DN IVSTINIANVS PP AVG.

Reverse (back)

Large capital letter 'M' representing 40 nummi, with a cross above, officina letter below, and regnal year indicators to the sides, within a circular border.

Estimated value

$20-$100 depending on exact mint, officina, and preservation state

What drives this coin's value

Centering, legibility of legends, regnal year, clarity of the portrait, and stable green or brown patina

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine with typical earthen deposits and wear on high points

Mintage & rarity

Common to scarce depending on specific mint and regnal year variant

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for cast seams or bubbly surfaces which indicate modern forgeries; authentic ancient coins show crystalline structure and natural wear patterns

Notable varieties & errors

Varying regnal years (Year 1 through Year 39) and different officina marks (A, B, Γ, Δ, etc.)

Similar coins

Folles of Anastasius I, Justin II, and Maurice Tiberius

Care & preservation

Store in a stable, low-humidity environment. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive scrubbing to preserve the natural bronze patina.

Other byzantine empire coins

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Byzantine Half Follis of Justinian II

Byzantine Empire (Syracuse Mint) · 685-695 AD

Half Follis (20 Nummi)

Follis (large module)

Byzantine Empire · Circa 498-668 AD (specifically, the image likely shows a follis from the reigns of Justinian I, Justin II, or Maurice Tiberius, given the clear 'M' design)

40 Nummi (M)