Follis

Byzantine Follis (possibly Anonymous Follis)

Byzantine Empire · Circa 10th-11th century AD (specifically, likely Class A2 or A3, c. 976-1081 AD)

The coin features a standing figure, likely an emperor or Christ, with a nimbus (halo) behind the head and holding a labarum or long cross, and possibly an orb. The figure is flanked by Greek inscriptions, often debased or abbreviated. The reverse typically bears a three-line legend. The coin's overall appearance is irregular in shape and strike, common for Byzantine coinage of this era.

Country: Byzantine Empire
Year: Circa 10th-11th century AD (specifically, likely Class A2 or A3, c. 976-1081 AD)
Denomination: Follis
Metal: Bronze/Copper

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified September 30, 2025More byzantine empire coins →

Explore Byzantine Follis (possibly Anonymous Follis) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own coins.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Overview

Historical significance

Anonymous Folles are significant as they represent a shift in Byzantine coinage policy. Unlike earlier issues that featured the reigning emperor, these coins depict religious imagery (specifically Christ Pantocrator or standing figures of Christ/Virgin Mary) without the emperor's portrait. This change is often interpreted as a move to assert the emperor's piety and divine right to rule, or perhaps to depersonalize the coinage during periods of political instability. These coins were the staple currency for everyday transactions in the vast Byzantine Empire for over a century.

Estimated value

Due to their commonality and often poor preservation, most Anonymous Folles in circulated condition are valued between "$20" and "$100". Higher grades or rare varieties can fetch more, potentially in the "hundreds of dollars". The exact value depends heavily on the specific class, condition, and clarity of the details.

Care & preservation

Handle the coin by its edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin. Store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in a non-PVC coin holder or slab to prevent environmental damage and further corrosion. Cleaning is generally not recommended, as it can devalue ancient coins; a stable patina is often preferred by collectors.

Other byzantine empire coins

See all

Byzantine Empire Bronze Follis (40 Nummi)

Byzantine Empire · 6th to 7th Century AD (reign of Justinian I, Phocas, Heraclius, or similar)

Follis or 40 Nummi

Byzantine Empire Follis (40 Nummi)

Byzantine Empire · 527–600 AD (Typically Justinian I, Justin II, or Maurice Tiberius)

Follis (40 Nummi)

Byzantine Half Follis of Justinian II

Byzantine Empire (Syracuse Mint) · 685-695 AD

Half Follis (20 Nummi)

Byzantine Folles of Justinian I

Byzantine Empire · 527-565 AD

Follis (40 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)

Byzantine Follis or 10 Nummi (Uncertain Emperor/Mint)

Byzantine Empire · 6th - 7th Century AD

Follis or fractional bronze

Overview

Historical significance

Estimated value

Care & preservation

Other byzantine empire coins

Learn about Byzantine Follis (Possibly Anonymous Follis) in the encyclopedia