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

Own a remarkable Byzantine AE2 folles featuring the iconic facing bust of Jesus Christ, struck between 976–1025 CE, and certified by NGC. This historic bronze coin marks a major departure from earlier Roman traditions and reflects the growing centrality of Christianity in the Byzantine Empire.

Unlike Roman imperial coinage, which typically depicted emperors in profile, this anonymous folles presents a forward-facing portrait of Christ, emphasizing his divine authority. The reverse originally bore a Greek inscription reading "Jesus Christ, King of Kings," affirming the belief that Christ himself ruled above all earthly powers. Over time, variations of this inscription appeared as later emperors continued the issue.

These coins are referred to as "anonymous" because they do not name the emperor who commissioned them. The tradition began during the reign of Basil II (known as the "Bulgar Slayer") and continued through multiple rulers until the end of the First Crusade. The style and religious messaging of these folles reflect the empire’s efforts to unify its citizens under Orthodox Christianity during a period of military expansion and religious fervor.

Certified and protected by NGC, this AE2 bronze coin offers collectors a tangible and highly symbolic piece of Byzantine history. It represents not only the artistic evolution of coinage but also the deep intertwining of political power and Christian faith during the Middle Ages.

A meaningful acquisition for collectors of Byzantine artifacts, medieval coinage, or early Christian art.