Byzantine AE2 Anonymous Folles with Bust of Christ (976-1025 CE) NGC

Own a certified Byzantine AE2 folles featuring the facing bust of Jesus Christ, struck between 976–1025 CE, and authenticated by NGC. This remarkable coin represents a pivotal shift in style and religious expression during the medieval Byzantine Empire.

Unlike Roman coins, which traditionally depicted rulers in left- or right-facing profiles, these anonymous folles show Christ facing directly outward — a powerful symbol of divine authority over the empire. This bold new portrait style reinforced the idea of Christ as the true sovereign, overshadowing the temporal power of the emperor.

The reverse originally bore a Greek inscription translating to “Jesus Christ, King of Kings,” reflecting the empire’s deep commitment to Orthodox Christianity. Over time, later issues would slightly vary this inscription, but the strong religious message remained consistent across generations of Byzantine rulers.

Known as "anonymous" because they do not bear the name of any emperor, these folles first appeared during the reign of Basil II and continued to be issued by his successors through the end of the First Crusade. They stand as important symbols of the Byzantine blending of state power and religious devotion.

Certified by NGC, this bronze folles is a historic and spiritual artifact, offering collectors a meaningful connection to the medieval Christian world. A perfect addition for collectors of Byzantine, medieval, or religious coinage.