Byzantine "Portrait of Christ" coin // 1028 - 1042 AD

Byzantine Empire, reign of Romanus III, 1028–1034 AD. Class B bronze follis—One of the first coins ever to depict Jesus Christ! The front depicts Christ facing, holding Book of Gospels, +EMMANOVHA IX-XC around / The back depicts the True Cross upon three steps, IS \ XS above, bAS-ILE \ bASILE ("Jesus Christ, King of Kings"). Dark olive-green patina with light earthen deposits. Coin reference: Sear 1823, DOC 676 for type. Encapsulated and certified by NGC. Coin measures 27mm diameter; Archival slab measures 3.125" x 2.125" x 0.375”. Provenance: Ex De Père, WI collection.

— Struck under Romanus III, 1028–1034 AD
— Provenance: Ex-De Père, WI collection
— Diameter 27mm; Encapsulated NGC slab: 3.125" x 2.125" x 0.375"

This piece is accompanied by a hand-signed certificate of authenticity which includes all the details, culture, dating, motifs/inscriptions when applicable, historical relevance, and provenance.