voulgaroktonou

Quite right, @robinjojo, I've never seen a pristine Antiochene joint reign follis either. Here's my scrappy example; very little of a mint mark to be seen either. It's Sear 130; Hahn 10 var. Officina gamma. 17.77 mm. 32.6 mm. 11 hr. Here's my Kyzikos example: Sear 128A; Hahn 9, 2. 16.93 gr. 30.6 mm. 5 hr. Poor photo. Coin nicer in hand,

Dear @sand, thank you for your kind words. This has been a fun exercise; so many (yourself included) have posted so many interesting coins and fascinating information. I'm going on a few days vacation this week with my wife, our younger daughter, our 4 dogs, and no computer (and I don't own a smart phone), but when I return, it will exciting to see what Trebizond coins others have posted. Kindest regards.

Constantine XI Palaiologos, emperor (12 Mar. 1449–29 May 1453). Last member of the Palaiologan dynasty and final ruler of the Byzantine Empire, Constantine was the fourth son of Manuel II. Constantine came to the Morea in 1428 to share the despotate with his brothers Theodore II and Thomas Palaiologos, where he ruled for 20 years. He significantly strengthened the Byzantine territories there by the restoration of the Hexamilion (1444) and the conquest of Patras (1429), Athens, and Thebes (1444). His attempt to regain all of Greece, however, was destroyed by the Ottoman campaign of 1446. Since both of his older brothers, Theodore and Andronikos, predeceased him, he inherited the throne upon the death of John VIII. He was crowned at Mistra on 6 Jan. 1449 and began his reign in March when he reached Constantinople. He did not receive a second coronation in Hagia Sophia. Like his brother John VIII, Constantine accepted the Union of Florence (merging of the eastern and western churches), in the hope of gaining military assistance from the West. During his short reign he made several desperate appeals to European rulers. He did not implement the Union, however, until 12 Dec. 1452. Constantine fought bravely during the Ottoman siege of Constantinople and was killed on the ramparts during the final Turkish assault. There have been numerous studies of the fall of Constantinople, but one of the most convenient for English readers is Sir Steven Runciman's The Fall of Constantinople 1453. The quoted sections that follow are from his wonderful book. On Monday the 28th, realizing the end was near, the emperor encouraged his small force by reminding them what they were fighting for. “To his Greek subjects he said that a man should always be ready to die either for his faith or his country or for his family or for his sovereign. Now his people must be prepared to die for all four causes. He spoke of the glories and high traditions of the great Imperial city… He urged them to remember that they were the descendants of the ancient heroes of Greece and Rome and to be worthy of their ancestors. For his part, he said, he was ready to die for his faith, his city, and his people.” That evening the last Christian service was held in the great church of Holy Wisdom, the Hagia Sophia, that for a thousand years had been the heart of Eastern Orthodox Christianity. Latin Catholic and Greek Orthodox put aside their bitter doctrinal differences. “Priests who held union with Rome to be a mortal sin now came to the altar to serve their Unionist brothers. The Cardinal was there, and beside him bishops who would never acknowledge his authority; and all the people came to make confession and take communion, not caring whether Orthodox or Catholic administered it. There were Italians and Catalans along with the Greeks. The golden mosaics, studded with the images of Christ and his saints and the emperors and empresses of Byzantium, glimmered in the light of a thousand lamps and candles; and beneath them for the last time the priests in their splendid vestments moved in the solemn rhythm of the Liturgy. At this moment there was union in the Church of Constantinople.” Have you ever seen an “autograph” of Constantine XI? Here’s one I took from a book in our library. It’s from a contemporary chrysobull, or imperial decree. The wording follows very closely the inscriptions found on his stavrata and those of his immediate predecessors. + Κωνσταντίνος εν Χριστώ τω Θεώ πιστός βασιλεύς και αυτοκράτωρ των Ρωμαίων ο Παλαιολόγος :+ Constantine, in Christ, God, faithful emperor and autocrat of the Romans, the Palaeologos. Constantine XI. Constantinople. 1449/53. Eighth Stavraton. 0.63 gr. 12.7 mm. hr. 11. Sear -; DO 1789. Bendall, “The coinage of Constantine XI” (Revue Numismatique 1991, pp. 134-142), #110 (this coin). Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: bust of Constantine. Constantine XI. Constantinople. 1449/53. Eighth Stavraton. 0.63 gr. 13 mm. hr. 12. Sear -; DO 1789. Bendall, “The coinage of Constantine XI” (Revue Numismatique 1991, pp. 134-142), #129 (this coin). Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: bust of Constantine. Mehmed II, ruler of the Ottomans (1451–81) and conqueror of Constantinople. Although his relations with Constantine XI were initially amicable, the Byzantine emperor unwisely provoked Mehmed by threatening to support the claims of Orhan, a potential rival to the Ottoman throne, who was held at the Byzantine court. What was he thinking? Soon thereafter Mehmed systematically prepared for his assault on Constantinople. Mehmed began the siege on 6 Apr. 1453. The mighty walls, which had withstood repeated sieges for a thousand years, were no match for the Turkish cannon and the City fell on 29 May 1453. Mehmed allowed his troops a day of plundering and then assumed full control. He immediately began “the greater war”—transforming the ravaged city into a vital new capital, a project that engaged him the rest of his life. OTTOMAN EMPIRE: Mehmet II, 1451-1481, Au sultani, Constantinople, AH 883 = 1478/79. 3.52 gr. 20 mm.

John VIII Palaiologos, emperor (1425–48), was the eldest son of Manuel II. He succeeded his father in mid-1425. John took active part in two successful campaigns in the Peloponnesos. During his reign the Byzantines regained much of the Morea and began to expand into Attica and Boeotia. Nonetheless, Thessalonike fell to the Turks in 1430 and, after the Turkish campaign of 1446, the Morea had to pay tribute to the sultan. John sought rapprochement with the West to ward off further Ottoman advances. To this end, he was eager to achieve Union of the Churches and personally participated in the Council of Ferrara-Florence, where he signed the decree of Union. After his return to Constantinople in 1440, however, he found much bitter opposition to this move. John died without ever implementing the Union. He was succeeded by his brother, Constantine XI. Stavraton, Constantinople, 1425-48. 6.65 gr. 24 mm. 12 hr. Sear 2563-4; DO 1647-48. Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: nimbate bust of John, inscription in two lines around emperor. Stavraton, Constantinople, 1425-48. 6.70 gr. 23.2 mm. hr. Sear 2563-4; DO 1748-50. Obv: Brockage, but would be nimbate bust of Christ]; rev: nimbate bust of John, inscription in two lines around emperor. Stavraton, Constantinople, 1425-48. 6.67 gr. 24.2 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2563-4; DO – ; Ashmolean 1064. Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: nimbate bust of John, inscription in two lines around emperor. The reverse is struck from a half stavraton die. P. J. Donald’s article: “A Late Palaeologan Irregularity”, published in the Spink Numismatic Circular, Nov. 1986, pp. 294-5 first described this error, of which I have tracked ca. 7 specimens, all from the same dies. Stavraton, Constantinople, 1425-48. 6.76 gr. 23.8 mm. 1 hr. Sear 2563-4; DO 1746; Ashmolean 1065. Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: nimbate bust of John, inscription in two lines around emperor. Half stavraton, Constantinople, 1425-48. 3.30 gr. 20.1 mm. 2 hr. Sear 2565; DO 1766. Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: nimbate bust of John, inscription in double border of dots. Ex collection Henri Pottier. Half stavraton, Constantinople, 1425-48. 3.25 gr. 19 mm. 1 hr. Sear -; DO 1757-58; PCPC 17-19. Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: nimbate bust of John, inscription in double border of dots. A scarce issue from the public mint, not the imperial mint of Constantinople. See Bendall PCPC p. 69.

On the death of John V, his grandson John VII Palaiologos, rebelled against his uncle Manuel II, who he felt had stolen his claim to the empire. In April 1390 he seized Constantinople with Genoese and Turkish aid and reigned briefly until his deposition in September. After reconciling with Manuel, John served as his regent from 1399 to 1403 while the Basileus traveled to the courts in the West, seeking Latin aid against the Turks, who were besieging Constantinople. The capital was saved by Bayezid's defeat at Ankara in 1402; in 1403 John signed a treaty with the Turks whereby Thessalonike was restored to the empire. Shortly after Manuel's return from the West, John was made “basileus of all Thessaly” and despotes of Thessalonike, where he spent his final years quietly. John VII, Half stavraton, Constantinople, 1399-1403. 3.77 gr. 21 mm. 12 hr. Sear 2562; DO 1334-45. Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: nimbate bust of John, legend in single circle. John VII, Eighth stavraton, Constantinople, 1399-1402. 0.48 gr. 14 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2562A; DO 1364-74. Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: bust of John. John VII, Follaro, Constantinople, 1390. 0.49 gr. 14.5 mm. 12 hr. Sear 2567 (John VIII); DO 1394-5. Obv: Crowned bust of John; rev: cross with star in each angle. John VII, Follaro, Constantinople, 1399-1403. 0.44 gr. 13.1 mm. 7 hr. Sear 2568 (John VIII) ; DO 1391-92. Obv: Christ standing facing in mandorla; rev: emperor standing facing, holding scepter cruciger. Manuel II Palaiologos, emperor (1391–1425). Second son of John V, Manuel was named co-emperor and heir to the throne in 1373. He was forced, however, to endure internecine conflict within the imperial family for nearly two decades, only attaining sole rule in 1391, following the death of his older brother Andronikos IV. Manuel's career was spent by alternately seeking accommodation with the Turks and searching Western military aid against them. As an Ottoman vassal he had to accompany sultan Bayezid I on campaign in Anatolia in 1391. From 1399 to 1403 Manuel visited the courts of western Europe, vainly seeking assistance against the Turks who were besieging Constantinople (1394–1402). In his absence, his nephew John VII ruled Constantinople as regent. Manuel was an energetic ruler who went on campaigns, conducted diplomatic negotiations, and supervised the reconstruction of the Hexamilion at the Isthmus of Corinth (1408, 1415). He suffered a stroke in 1422 and died three years later as the monk Matthew. Manuel was a scholar and left an impressive body of writings: correspondence, studies on theology and rhetoric, even a description of a tapestry in the Louvre (which it is my hope to someday read – after retirement! 😊) Manuel II, Stavraton, Constantinople, 1394-1425. 7.41 gr. 25.8 mm. 12 hr. Sear 2549; DO – (sigla var.). Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: nimbate bust of Manuel, legend in two circles. Manuel II, Half stavraton, Constantinople, 1391-1395. 3.43 gr. 20.5 mm. 7 hr. Sear 2550; DO 1312. Obv: Nimbate St. Demetrios riding horse right; rev: nimbate bust of Manuel, holding in right hand a scepter cruciger, legend in single circle. Ex Despot Sale, LHS 97, May 10, 2006, lot 353. Ex collection Kapamadji. Manuel II, Half stavraton, Constantinople, 1403-25. 3.77 gr.19 mm. 5 hr. Sear 2551; DO 1451. Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: nimbate bust of Manuel, legend in single circle. Manuel II, Half stavraton, Constantinople, 1391- 1423. 3.70 gr. 19.9 mm.6 hr. Sear 2551 var.; DO 1453-55. Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: nimbate bust of Manuel, legend in single circle. This is a scarce variety, with the reverse inscription reading BACIΛεVC MANOVHΛ…instead of the usual MANOVHΛ BACIΛεVC… Manuel II, Half stavraton, Constantinople, 1403-25. 3.63 gr. 19.3 mm. 8 hr. Sear 2552; DO 1519-20. Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: nimbate bust of Manuel, legend in single circle. Manuel II, Eighth stavraton, Constantinople, 1391- 1423. 0.59 gr. 13 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2553; DO 1543-88. Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ rev: bust of Manuel. Manuel II, Follaro, Constantinople, 1391- 1423. 0.40 gr. 13.8 mm. 12 hr. Sear 2559; DO 1610. Obv: Bust of Manuel; rev: cross with star in each angle.

John V Palaiologos, emperor (1341–91). During his 50-year reign John faced numerous rebellions and a civil war; he was nine years old at the death of his father Andronikos III (1341), and initially came under the control of his empress-mother Anna of Savoy (regent 1341-47). The same year John VI Kantakouzenos was proclaimed emperor at Didymoteichon and began the Civil War of 1341–47. After the victory of Kantakouzenos, John married the usurper's daughter Helena and remained in the background until he forced Kantakouzenos's abdication in 1354. During the 1350s and 1360s John sought Western aid against the Ottomans. He visited Hungary in 1366 and Rome in 1369, where he converted to Catholicism in the hope of eliciting western assistance. On his way home, he was detained in Venice because of his debts and was forced to promise the cession of Tenedos to the Venetians. In 1371 John bowed to the inevitable and became an Ottoman vassal. His remaining years were troubled by the rebellions of his son Andronikos IV (1373, 1376–79) and grandson John VII (1390). To conciliate his heirs, John had to allocate to them appanages and divide the empire into semi-independent principalities, while he retained rule in the capital. John VI Kantakouzenos, emperor (1347–1354), was about the same age as Andronikos (III) Palaiologos and was his close friend until the emperor's death in 1341. He supported Andronikos's rebellion against his grandfather (1321–28) and was his principal general and adviser during his reign. After Andronikos died, leaving a nine-year-old heir, John V Palaiologos, Kantakouzenos failed to secure the regency. His power struggle with Anna of Savoy and her supporters ended in the Civil War of 1341–47, and Kantakouzenos was proclaimed co-emperor at Didymoteichon (26 Oct. 1341). On 21 May 1346 he was crowned at Adrianople and in Feb. 1347 entered Constantinople. The relatively peaceful relations between John V and John VI lasted until 1351; in 1352 a new civil war broke out. Although Kantakouzenos used Ottoman troops (who established themselves at Kallipolis, their first foothold in Europe), he was defeated by John V, who assumed sole power. After his abdication Kantakouzenos became the monk Ioasaph, spending the remainder of his days as a monk. Although today’s schedule includes John VII, he seems better placed with his uncle Manuel II, so I will include him next time. John V, Accession Issue, Stamenon, Thessalonike, 1341. 1.21 gr. 21.4 mm. 12 hr. Sear -; DO 1190. Obv: (Bust of Archangel); rev: Archangel Michael presents kneeling emperor to a military saint (Demetrios?), who holds with the emperor a patriarchal cross. John V with Anna, Hyperpyron, Constantinople, 1341-47. 3.10 gr. 22 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2466; DO 942. Obv: Andronikos (deceased) kneeling before Christ; rev: Anna and John standing. John V with Anna, Assarion, Thessalonike, 1352-65. 1.19 gr. 22 mm. 12 hr. Sear 2521; DO – (p. 198, #2) Obv: John standing, holding labarum and akakia; rev: Anna standing, holding a cross scepter and a building. Ex Despot Sale, LHS 97, May 10, 2006, lot 337.03 John V, Eighth stavraton, Constantinople, 1367-1376. 1.04 gr. 16 mm. 7 hr. Sear 2512 ; DO 1247-1248a. Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: bust of John. John V, Stavraton, Constantinople, 1379-1391. 8.03 gr. 25.5 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2510; DO 1266-67. Obv: Nimbate bust of Christ; rev: bust of John. John V, Follaro, Constantinople, 1379-1391. 1.25 gr. 16.2 mm. 12 hr. Sear 2515; DO – (p. 212). Obv: Standing figure of St. Demetrios, holding spear and shield; rev: nimbate bust of John, holding cross scepter. Ex Despot Sale, LHS 97, May 10, 2006, lot 350 (part). I would have included this basilikon of John V/VI, but I sadly have doubts concerning its authenticity. With an obverse bearing a standing St. Demetrios and reverse featuring standing figures of John VI and John V together holding a long cross, the coin is not listed in any of the standard references. Several examples have appeared on the market in the past few years, but a comparison of photos shows too many exact peculiarities of strike to inspire confidence. I would welcome any thoughts.

Andronikos III Palaiologos, emperor (24 May 1328–1341). Son of Michael IX Palaiologos, he became co-emperor sometime between 1308 and 1313. Andronikos was second in line to the throne until he antagonized his grandfather, Andronikos II, by his dissolute behavior and by accidentally causing the death of his brother Manuel. With the support of John (VI) Kantakouzenos, Andronikos rebelled in 1321 against the old emperor. The civil war lasted, on and off, for seven years; in 1328, Andronikos III entered Constantinople and forced his grandfather to abdicate. During the reign of Andronikos III, Kantakouzenos held real power, while the emperor devoted himself to military campaigns and hunting. He restored northern Thessaly and Epiros briefly to the empire and strengthened the imperial navy. These gains were offset, however, by Serbian expansion in Macedonia and the Ottoman advance in Bithynia. He died at age 44, leaving as his heir his nine-year-old son, John V Palaiologos. Trachy, Thessalonike, 1328-41. 3.36 gr. 25 mm. 6 hr.Sear 2359 (Andronikos II) ; DO 913-17. Obv: Half length figure of Archangel Michael; rev: emperor kneeling in proskynesis before Christ. Basilikon, Constantinople, 1328-41. 1.17 gr. 19 mm. 7 hr. Sear 2472; DO 875-76. Obv: Christ enthroned; rev: St. Demetrios and emperor. Assarion, Thessalonike, 1328-41. 0.87 gr. 21.7 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2482; DO 918. Obv: Nimbate bust of St. Demetrios; rev: St. Archangel Michael crowning emperor, who holds a patriarchal cross. Assarion, Thessalonike, 1328-41. 22 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2483; DO 919-20. Obv: Winged patriarchal cross; rev: emperor and St. Demetrios holding long cross, above which, star in a cloud. Assarion, Thessalonike, 1328-41. 2.16 gr. 25.5 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2486; DO 927-28. Obv: Nimbate bust of St. Demetrios, holding sword and shield; rev: emperor standing, holding in each hand a patriarchal cross. Star in left and right fields. Trachy, Thessalonike, 1328-41. 1.52 gr. 20.5 mm; 6 hr. Sear 2497; DO -; LPC 242, 13; PCPC 265. Obv: Palaeologan monogram, star in left field; rev: emperor on horseback, B in left field, star in right.

Andronikos II Palaiologos, emperor (1282–1328). His 46-year reign, the third longest in the history of the empire, was plagued by religious dissension, Ottoman advances, civil war, and financial problems; but at the same time, arts and letters flourished. Co-emperor from 1272, Andronikos repudiated the unpopular pro-Latin religious policies of his father, Michael VIII, immediately upon the latter's death in 1282. He was staunchly Orthodox. The final years of the reign of Andronikos, 1321–28, were troubled by civil war with his grandson, the future Andronikos III. He was deposed on 24 May 1328 and died as the monk Antonios four years later. Michael IX Palaiologos, co-emperor (1295–1320); died 12 Oct. 1320. Eldest son of Andronikos II, he was named co-emperor in 1295. Although a brave and energetic soldier, Michael’s military campaigns over the empire’s increasing threats from both west and east were notoriously unsuccessful. He predeceased Andronikos II, dying at the age of 43, reportedly of grief over the accidental murder of his son Manuel . Andronikos III Palaiologos, emperor (24 May 1328–1341). Son of Michael IX Palaiologos, he became co-emperor sometime between 1308 and 1313. Andronikos was second in line to the throne until he antagonized his grandfather, Andronikos II, by his dissolute behavior and by accidentally causing the death of his brother Manuel. With the support of John (VI) Kantakouzenos, Andronikos rebelled in 1321 against the old emperor. The civil war lasted, on and off, for seven years; in 1328, Andronikos III entered Constantinople and forced his grandfather to abdicate. During the reign of Andronikos III, Kantakouzenos held real power, while the emperor devoted himself to military campaigns and hunting. He restored northern Thessaly and Epiros briefly to the empire and strengthened the imperial navy. These gains were offset, however, by Serbian expansion in Macedonia and the Ottoman advance in Bithynia. He died at age 44, leaving as his heir his nine-year-old son, John V Palaiologos. The diversity and inventiveness of the types of the Palaeologan base metal coinage are matched and, not a few times exceeded, by the distressing carelessness of their execution. Years ago I was invited to attend a celebration at Dumbarton Oaks on the occasion of the completion of DOC IV and V. Although not yet published, the page proofs for both volumes were available for examination. During the affair someone asked Philip Grierson the rich variety of types notwithstanding, how could he stand to look at them? We all laughed in agreement. Andronikos II, alone Trachy, Constantinople, 1282-1328. 2 gr. 23.7 mm. 5 hr. Sear 2346; DO 579-80. Obv: St. Theodore, holding sword and scabbard; rev: emperor holds scepter cruciger and globus cruciger within inner circle, surrounded by inscription within outer circle. Trachy, Thessalonike, 1282-1328. 1.25 gr. 22.9 mm. Sear 2370; DO 849-51. Obv: brockage, but likely bust of St. Demetrios; rev: winged emperor holds model of city. Trachy, Thessalonike, 1282-1328. 1.97 gr. 24.1 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2379; DO 846-8. Obv: bust of nimbate military saint, flanked by 2 stars; rev: winged emperor holds patriarchal cross. Trachy, Thessalonike, 1282-1320. 2.18 gr. 25 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2384; DO 784-5. Obv: winged patriarchal cross; rev: emperor holds akakia and labarum. Star in left field. Trachy, Thessalonike, 1282-1328. 1.51 gr. 25.5 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2385; DO 745-48. Obv:2 wings, 6 pointed star above and below; rev: emperor in portico, holds cross scepter and akakia. Andronikos II and Michael IX Hyperpyron, Constantinople, 1303-20. 3.31 gr. 24.4 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2396; DO 262-492 var. (Sigla of B Θ not in DO.) Obv: Virgin within walls of Constantinople; rev: Andronikos and Michael crowned by Christ. Basilikon, Constantinople, 1295-1320. 1.93 gr. 20.7 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2402; DO 509-12. Obv: Christ enthroned; rev: Andronikos and Michael facing, holding labarum. Scarcer variety with emperors’ names. Basilikon, Constantinople, 1295-1320. 1.60 gr. 19.8 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2402; DO 517-24 var. All as before, but this is the commoner variety with the generic inscription AVTOKPATOPεC POMεON. Assarion , Constantinople, 1294-1320 or later. 2.98 gr. 22 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2430; DO 647-654. Obv: +ANΔPONIKOC ΔЄCΠOTHC, cross pattée with pellet in each quarter; rev: Andronicus and Michael standing facing. Assarion, Constantinople, 1294-1320 or later. 1.52 gr., 19.3 mm. 12 hr. Sear 2433; DO 661-670. Obv: Half-length figures of Andronicus and Michael facing, holding a labarum; rev: Palaiologan monogram: ΛΓ/ ΠA; Assarion, Constantinople, 1294-1320 or later. 2.21 gr. 23.1 mm. 5 hr. Sear 2434; DO 671-76. Obv: Andronikos standing; rev: Michael standing. Andronikos II and Andronikos III Hyperpyron, Constantinople, 1325-1328. 2.94 gr. 20.7 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2461; DO 494-97. Obv: Virgin within walls of Constantinople; rev: Andronikos II and III blessed by Christ. Trachy, Thessalonike, 1325-1328. 0.72 gr. 18.1 mm; 1 hr. Sear 2465; DO 853-4. Obv: Brockage, but would be bust of St. Demetrios; rev: Andronikos II and III blessed by Christ.

Michael VIII Palaiologos, emperor of Nicaea (1258-1261), at Constantinople, (1261–1282). Founder of the last dynasty of the Eastern Empire, the Palaiologoi (1259–1453), Michael made himself regent over the Nicaean child emperor John IV Laskaris in Aug. 1258 and was crowned co-emperor sometime after 1 Jan. 1259. He then planned for the restoration of the Byzantine Empire and in July 1261 recovered Constantinople from the Latins. The early years of Michael's reign were devoted to repopulating the capital and restoring damaged churches and public buildings. He also set about the construction of a fleet and strengthening of the fortifications of Constantinople. Michael's foreign policy focused on the use of diplomacy to ward off Latin attempts to regain Constantinople. He agreed to the Union of the Churches at Lyons (1274) in order to ward off the projected invasion of the empire by Charles I of Anjou. Although Michael was responsible for several important military and diplomatic accomplishments, he neglected the eastern frontier, permitting the Turks to increase their strength. In 1272 he made his son Andronikos II joint Augustus and on Michael’s death in 1282 was succeeded by him. Although Michael did his best to stabilize the restored empire, his Unionist religious policy alienated his subjects and the majority of the clergy. At his death he was refused the final rites of the Orthodox church. Æ Trachy, Constantinople, 1261-82. 3.04 gr. 28 mm. 5 hr. Sear 2260; DO 52-55. Obv: The Virgin enthroned facing; rev: Michael, supported by Archangel Michael , kneeling before Christ. Ex Bendall collection. Æ Trachy, Constantinople, 1261-82. 2.95 gr. 26.3 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2275; DO 91-95. Obv: Bust of Virgin orans; rev: Michael seated on throne. Æ Trachy, Thessalonike, 1252-1282. 1.33 gr. 27.2 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2297; DO 147-150. Obv: Archangel Michael standing on dais; rev: half length figures of emperor and St. Demetrios, holding a long haloed cross. Æ Trachy, Constantinople, 1272-82. 1.67 gr. 25.2 mm. 7 hr. Sear 2319; DO 202. Obv: Bust of Archangel Michael; rev: on left, half length figure of Andronikos II, beardless, holding palm branch in right hand; on right, half length figure of Michael, bearded, holding a labarum scepter.

Theodore Komnenos Doukas, emperor at Thessalonike (1224-1230). In 1215 Theodore Komnenos Doukas inherited from his half brother Michael I Angelus the Despotate of Epirus, which the latter had established in the wake of the fall of Constantinople in 1204. In 1224, Theodore conquered the Latin kingdom of Thessalonike, expanding his territories into the new Empire of Thessalonika. Theodore's conquest of Adrianople in 1225 suggested that the recovery of Constantinople was in sight, but his hopes were ended by his defeat, capture, and blinding by the Bulgarian tsar, John Asen II, in 1230 at the battle of Klokotnica. His brother Manuel Komnenos Doukas succeeded him. Tetarteron, Thessalonike, 1227-28. 3.47 gr. 22.1 mm. 7 hr. Sear 2170; DO (12.6). Obv: + ӨЄ/OΔωPOC/ ΔЄCПOT/HC O ΔOY/KAC in five lines; rev: Cross potent on three steps; facing busts of Theodore to left and St. Demetrius to right. Half tetarteron, Thessalonike, 1226-27. 1.74 gr. 17.4 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2173; DO 15b. Obv: Bust of St. Demetrios, holding spear and shield; rev: standing figure of emperor, holding labarum and globus cruciger. Manouel Komnenos Doukas, emperor at Thessalonike (1230–1237). Following his brother Theodore’s capture and blinding in 1230 at the hands John Asen II of Bulgaria, Manouel secured control of Thessalonike with the backing of the Bulgarian tsar. He held the lower rank of despotes, but affected the imperial title, which contemporaries recognized as a fiction. John Asen II released Theodore in 1237, placing him back in Thessalonike, and deposing Manouel. Billon Aspron Trachy, Thessalonika, 1230-37. 3.71 gr. 29.5 mm . 6 hr. Sear 2177; DO 3. Obv: Half-length facing bust of St. Demetrius, holding spear and hilt of sword; rev: Manuel standing facing, being crowned by Christ. John Komnenos-Doukas emperor at Thessalonike (1237-1242); as Despotes (1242-44) Upon the return of Theodore Komnenos Doukas to Thessalonike in 1237, instead of reascending the throne, he made his son John Komnenos-Doukas emperor. He ruled from 1237-1242 as emperor, but was forced by John III Vatzates in 1242 to accept the lower rank of Despotes, holding it until his death in 1244. Billon Aspron Trachy, Thessalonika, 1237-42. 1.69 gr. 19.9 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2205; DO (20). Obv: Eagle with wings outstretched, head to left; rev: patriarchal cross between facing busts of John and St. Demetrius. Billon Aspron Trachy, Thessalonika, 1237-? 1.13 gr. 16.5 mm. 12 hr. Sear 2220; DO (35). Obv: Brockage, but it would be an open wing; rev: facing winged bust of John above city walls.

Theodore I Laskaris, founder of the empire of Nicaea and its emperor (1205–21). His wife was daughter of Alexios III Angelos. After his father-in-law's overthrow in July 1203, he escaped with his wife to Asia Minor, where he began to lay the foundations of an empire in exile centered on Nicaea. In summer 1205 an assembly at Nicaea proclaimed him emperor following the Latin defeat at the battle of Adrianople. Theodore’s fledgling state had to meet both a Seljuk invasion as well as Latin attempts to destroy the resurgent Byzantine power. On his death in 1222, he left a secure empire to his son in law / successor John III Vatatzes. Billon Aspron Trachy, Nicaea, 1205-08. 3.30 gr. 32.3 mm. 5 hr. Sear 2061; DO 5a. Obv: Virgin seated on throne; nimbate head of Christ on her breast. Rev: Emperor and St. Theodore holding patriarchal cross. Silver Aspron Trachy, Magnesia, 1208-12. 3.48 gr. 33 mm. 6 hr.Sear 2064; DO 2. Obv: Christ enthroned; rev: Emperor and St. Theodore holding star on long shaft. It is no coincidence that the emperor featured his namesake, St. Theodore, prominently on his coinage. John III Vatatzes, emperor of Nicaea (1221 - 1254). Under John’s dynamic hand, the Nicaean state extended its territories, its greatest prize, Thessalonike , being added to the empire in 1246. His remaining years were devoted to protecting and extending his European territories and preparing for the eventual recovering of Constantinople. John III was a ruler of the highest ability and of great tenacity of purpose. Remembered as “a kind and gentle soul”, he was revered after his death as a saint by the Greeks of Asia Minor. Billon Aspron Trachy, Thessalonika, 1249-54. 3.03 gr. 27.8 mm. 5 hr. Sear 2128; DO 8. Obv: The Virgin enthroned facing, holding head of the infant Christ on lap; rev: facing figures of John and St. Demetrius, holding long patriarchal cross between them. Ex Despot Sale, LHS 97, May 10, 2006, lot 200 (part). Billon Aspron Trachy, Thessalonika, 1249-54. 3.93 gr. 31 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2129; DO 9. Obv: Bust of Christ; rev: John and Saint Demetrius, holding between them a model of a castle. Ex Despot Sale, LHS 97, May 10, 2006, lot 200 (part). On the death of his father, John III in 1254, Theodore II Laskaris, became emperor of Nicaea. Like his father, he too was a gifted and energetic ruler, but died after being on the throne for only 4 years, in 1258. Billon Aspron Trachy, Magnesia, 1254-55. 2.84 gr. 31.9 mm. Sear 2143; DO 11b. Obv: St. Theodore; rev: emperor holding labarum and globe surmounted by a patriarchal cross.

Thanks for your kind words. You've got some wonderful coins, there, @Simon! Thank you for sharing them!

Latin Occupation, 1204-61. When Constantinople fell to the Latin invaders of the 4th Crusade in 1204, they looted wealth that had accumulated in the City for 900 years. Priceless gold and silver church plate was melted to swell their coffers. Bronze statuary dating back to the classical period of Greece was melted down to make coins. The Latin rulers of Constantinople struck no coinage in their name. What we have of their coinage consists of trachea more or less imitating Byzantine models, although there are a few innovations markedly western in theme. For example, Sear 2040, with Sts. Peter and Paul embracing is without precedent in Byzantine coinage, although the type does appear on some Byzantine lead seals. Top row: Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1204-61. 3.85 gr. 29.6 mm. 5 hr. Sear 2021; DO 1. Obv: Virgin enthroned, nimbate head of Christ on breast; rev: emperor (inscription naming Manouel), holding labarum and anexikakia. Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1204-61. 6.70 gr. 34.8 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2029; DO (9) = BNP 62/Cp.(B)02 . Second known example. Virgin standing, orans; emperor crowned by Christ. Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1204-61. 0.82 gr. 19 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2035; DO 15. Obv: Christ standing on dais. Rev: emperor in military dress holding labarum and globus cruciger. Bottom row: Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1204-61. 1.28 gr. 19.6 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2036; DO 16. Obv: nimbate bust of Christ; rev: Archangel Michael, holding scepter and globus cruciger. Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1204-61. 1.37 gr. 22.7 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2040; DO 20.7-9. Obv: Virgin orans; rev: Sts. Peter and Paul embracing. This novel scene is without precedent in Byzantine coin types, being western in composition. Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1204-61. 1.38 gr, 21.9 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2043; DO 23. Obv: cross on base, in corners, I C / N K; rev: emperor in military dress holding labarum and globus cruciger. Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1204-?. 1.27 gr. 23.2 mm. 12 hr. Sear 2044; DO 30. Obv: brockage of reverse, but would have been Virgin enthroned; rev: emperor (inscription naming Manouel), holding labarum and anexikakia. For a discussion of the mint and dating of this and the next 2 small module trachea, see DOC 4:2, pp. 670-72. Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1204-?. 0.63 gr. 17 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2048; DO 34. Obv: Bust of Christ; rev: emperor holding labarum and globus cruciger. Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1204-?. 1.52 gr. 19.5 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2049; DO 35. Obv: Christ enthroned; rev: Sts. Helen and Constantine holding patriarchal cross.

Thank you for your kind words. That trachy came from a CNG auction many years ago...

Alexios III Angelos overthrew and blinded his younger brother Isaac II, taking the throne in 1195. Under his weak and ineffectual rule the empire tottered close to collapse, the capital finally succumbing to the forces of the Fourth Crusade in 1203. Two top coins: Alexius III Angelus-Comnenus, 1195-1203 Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1195-97. 2.99 gr. 27.7 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2011; DO 3a.1-3. Obv.: Beardless, nimbate bust of Christ; rev., Alexius and St. Constantine together holding a globus cruciger. AE Half tetarteron, Thessalonica, 1195-97 (?). 2.20 gr. 15.9 mm. 6hr. Sear 2016; DO 7. Obv: Bust of St. George facing, nimbate, wearing cuirass and sagion, holding in right hand spear, and in left sword hilt. Rev: Alexius, crowned, wearing divitision and chlamys, standing facing, holding in right hand a labarum and in left, a cross on globe. Third coin: Isaac II Angelos, 2nd. reign, (1203–04). Following the flight of Alexius III when Constantinople fell to the forces of the Fourth Crusade in 1203, the blind Isaac was placed on the throne to rule jointly with his son Alexios IV. He died shortly thereafter. I apologize for the abysmal condition of this example. (And to my chagrin, I am unable to supply descriptive information such as weight, etc. My home records are lacking, and specific information is to be found on the envelope, in which the coin sits at the bank. ☹) Tetarteron, Constantinople, 1203. Sear 2019; DO 1a. Obv: Bust of Virgin orans, holding medallion with infant Christ; rev: emperor standing, holding labarum and globus cruciger.

Isaac II Angelos, emperor (1185–95, 1203–04). Upon the death of Andronikos, Isaac was acclaimed emperor by the people of Constantinople on 12 Sept. 1185. The historian Niketas Choniates records that the new emperor had a “mad passion for erecting huge buildings.” The emperor added baths and apartments to the Great Palace and Blachernai and created artificial islands in the Sea of Marmara. Isaac preferred a life of ease in the palace, but campaigned in person when necessary. From ca.1186, he was involved in continual warfare with the Vlachs and Bulgarians, often to the disadvantage of the Byzantines. The section of the Third Crusade led by Frederick I Barbarossa did much damage as it passed through imperial territory; only by timely concessions to the Westerners did Isaac avoid an attack on Constantinople. In early April 1195, conspirators led by Alexios III overthrew and blinded Isaac. After Alexios fled in 1203, the nobility returned Isaac to rule jointly with his son Alexios IV. He soon became weakened by age, and, conveniently for Alexios V, died of natural causes. Electrum Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1185-95. 2.63 gr. 28.1 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2002; DO 2a. Obv. Virgin seated, holding medallion with infant Christ. Rev. Isaac, on left, crowned by Archangel Michael, on right. Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1185-95. 5.60 gr. 29 mm. 6 hr. Sear 2003; DO 3f. Obv. Virgin seated, holding medallion with infant Christ. Rev. Isaac standing, holding scepter cruciger and anexikakia. In upper right, manus Dei. Theodore Mankaphas (usurper in Philadelphia, ca.1188–1205). A nobleman from Philadelphia in the Thrakesion theme, Theodore Mankaphas usurped twice, the first during the reign of Isaac II in 1188 and a second time following the conquest of Constantinople during the Fourth Crusade in 1204. Isaac II besieged Mankaphas in Philadelphia (June 1189), causing the usurper to give up his imperial title but he retained control in the city. Basil Vatatzes, doux of Thrakesion, forced Mankaphas ca.1193 to seek refuge from the sultan of Rūm at Ikonion. Isaac persuaded the sultan ca.1194 to surrender Mankaphas. The usurper was imprisoned, but by 1204 free and again powerful in Philadelphia. Following the Fourth Crusade, he created an independent state around Philadelphia. Mankaphas brought a large force to counter Henry of Hainault, who had occupied Atramyttion, but was defeated on 19 Mar. 1205. Mankaphas soon lost his territories to Theodore I Laskaris. Billon Aspron Trachy, Philadelphia, 1188-89. 3.17 gr. 27 mm. 5 hr. Sear - ; DO (2). Obv: Standing figure of Christ. Rev. Standing figure of Mankaphas, holding scepter surmounted by patriarchal cross. Although the Byzantine historian Niketas specifically mentions that the usurper initially struck a silver coin, Grierson was aware of no specimens of the reign as of 1969. However, several examples have turned up in Serbian and Bulgarian hoards since then, and Grierson, writing in DOC IV, 1, pp. 392-95 discusses in scholarly detail the various theories put forth as to their attribution, but indicating Mankaphas as the appropriate issuer. I enjoy his summary of the learned discussion on p. 395: “The amount of time and trouble expended on this historically quite insignificant and really rather quirky problem is now rapidly approaching the boundaries of absurdity.” Philip had a way with words! 😊

Andronikos I Komnenos, emperor (1183–85). Instead of summarizing the highlights (?) of this violent and unpleasant reign, it might be fun to quote from Charles Diehl’s Figures Byzantines: “In the life of this prince, so brilliant and yet so corrupt, at once an abominable tyrant and a superb statesman, one who could have saved the Empire but only precipitated its ruin, we find combined, as in a magnificent summary, all the essential characteristics, all the contrasts of Byzantine society: that strange mixture of good and evil – cruel, atrocious and decadent, yet also capable of grandeur, energy, and effort; a society which, during so many centuries, in all the troublous times of its history, always succeeded in finding within itself the necessary resources for life and for survival, not without glory.” Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1183-85. 3.23 gr. 30.4 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1985 (Sear plate coin); DO 3a. Obv: The Virgin, nimbate, standing facing on dais, holding before Her the nimbate head of the infant Christ. Rev: Andronicus standing facing, with forked beard, holding labarum in his right hand and globus cruciger in his left; on the right, Christ standing facing, crowns the Emperor. Copper Tetarteron, Thessalonika, 1183-85. 4.68 gr. 21.9 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1987; DO 6. Obv: Bust of Virgin, orans, nimbate head of Christ on her breast. Rev: ¾ length figure of Andronikos holding labarum and globus cruciger. Andronikos is distinguished on his coins by his long forked beard. This was considered sufficiently noteworthy to be mentioned by the 12/13 c. historian Niketas Choniates. Here’s another Sear 1985 showing the detail. Isaac Komnenos, usurper in Cyprus (1184–91). Isaac had a varied career as governor of Cilicia, then, as a prisoner, first of the Armenians, then of Bohemund III of Antioch, from whom Andronikos I ransomed him with the Templars' help. About 1183 or 1184, Isaac falsified imperial letters appointing him governor and went to Cyprus where he proclaimed himself emperor. The uniformly hostile sources charge him with tyrannical acts rivaling those of Andronikos I. About 1186 or 1187, Isaac II Angelos dispatched a fleet to regain Cyprus, but Isaac Komnenos defeated the imperial forces. Cyprus᾽s conquest by Richard I Lionheart ended Isaac's rule. Released in ca.1194 after subsequent imprisonment, Isaac went to Ikonion; from there he sought to arouse Turkish and Byzantine opposition to Alexios III. He was reportedly killed by poisoning. Billon Aspron Trachy, Nicosia (?), 1187-91. 3.40 gr. 30.1 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1991; DO 2. Obv., Virgin seated, holding nimbate medallion of Christ on lap. Rev. Isaac and St. George hold a long cross. Copper Tetarteron, uncertain mint, 1187-91. 2.31 gr. 21.3 mm. 7 hr. Sear 1998; DO 10a. Obv. Christ enthroned. Rev. Isaac crowned by Virgin.

Manuel I Komnenos, emperor (1143–1180). Upon his father’s death, Manuel was proclaimed Autokrator. One of the most contradictory figures among the Komnenos dynasty, chivalrous and courageous, Manuel imitated a western way of life; he admired such western institutions as jousts, which became fashionable in Constantinople during his reign. However, many of his contemporaries resented this adoption of western mores, and led to serious disagreements with the Patriarchate. As a sort of Christological pun on his name, Manuel placed the image of Christ Emmanouel on his coins. He died in 1180. Electrum Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1143-1152. 3.82 gr. 33.4 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1957; DO2b. Bust of Christ Emmanouel (“God with us”, a name given to the Savior in Matthew 1:23). On the reverse, Manuel is crowned by the Virgin. I usually do not purchase broken coins, but when a small group of these was offered at the price of a MacDonald’s meal, I departed from my custom! 😊 Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1167- ca.1180. 3.16 gr. 29.7 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1966; DO 13a. Obverse, Christ enthroned. Reverse, Manuel is crowned by the Virgin. Copper Tetarteron, Constantinople, 1152-1160. 5.69 gr. 22.9 mm. 5 hr. Sear 1968; DO 15. Obverse, standing figure of the Virgin orans. To right, manus Dei (hand of God). Reverse, Manuel standing, holding scepter cruciger and anexikakia. Copper Tetarteron, Thessalonika, 1152-1160. 3.84 gr. 24.8 mm. 5 hr. Sear 1975; DO 18. Obverse, bust of St., George, holding spear and shield; reverse, bust of Manuel, holding labarum and globus cruciger. Copper Tetarteron, Thessalonika, 1143-1152 3.31 gr. 21.1 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1977 (Sear plate coin). DO 20. Obverse, monogram: Manouel, Despotes, Komnenos. Reverse, bust of Manuel, holding labarum and globus cruciger. Half tetarteron, uncertain mint, 1143-1152. 1.75 gr. 18.9 mm. Sear 1979; DO 22. Obverse, brockage of the reverse. Reverse, bust of Manuel, holding labarum and globus cruciger.

Thank you. And I always love your chronological map of the empire!

Although John II Komnenos was formerly proclaimed emperor as a child in 1092, his actual accession to power took place in 1118 on his father’s death, against the wishes of his mother Irene and his sister Anna, who conspired on behalf of her husband Nikephoros Bryennios. John waged successful campaigns against the empire’s enemies in Anatola, and in the west, he crushed the Pechenegs in 1122 and defeated the Serbs and Hungarians in 1127–29. He also attempted to check Venice's growing economic power in the east, but in 1126 was forced to yield to a Venetian naval expedition. In 1143 John died of an injury received in a hunting accident. Electrum Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1118-1122. 4.38 gr. 33 mm. 6 hr. Obv. Christ seated on a throne, right hand raised, left holding Gospels. Rev. John and St. George holding long patriarchal cross. Sear 1941; DO 8b Billon Aspron Trachy, Constantinople, 1137-1143. 3.54 gr. 29.3 mm. 6 hr. Obv. Bust of Christ. Rev. Bust of John holding a scepter cruciger in right hand and a globus cruciger in left. Sear 1944; DO 10b Billon Aspron Trachy, Thessalonika, , 1137-1143. 4.06 gr. 27.7 mm. 6 hr. Obv. Virgin seated on throne, holding nimbate head of Christ on her chest. Rev. John standing, holding a labarum scepter in right hand and an anexikakia in left. Sear 1952; DO 11. Copper Tetarteron, Thessalonika, , 1137-1143. 3.75 gr. 18 mm. 6 hr. Obv. Nimbate bust of Christ. Rev. Bust of John holding a jeweled scepter in right hand and a globus cruciger in left. Sear 1953; DO 14b.

Dear Friend Severus, yes, pre the reform, the electrum was little more than silver.

Alexios I Komnenos, emperor (1081 - 1118). Alexios began his career as a general under Michael VII and Nikephoros III. Alexios revolted against Nikephoros and attained the throne with the support of the military aristocracy. At his accession the empire was in dire straits: the Seljuks occupied most of Asia Minor, while the Pechenegs threatened the Danubian provinces, and Robert Guiscard was preparing to attack Constantinople. Alexios acted effectively: in 1081–93 he overcame the Normans and defeated the Pechenegs. When Alexios came to the throne, he inherited a coinage which had become seriously debased over the course of much of the 11th century. He was initially hard pressed dealing with external threats, but by 1092 he had effectively restored stability and was able to carry out a major monetary reform, restoring a gold coin of reasonable fineness in the form of the hyperpyron and creating new fractional denominations of electrum and billon, which with the copper (initially lead) tetarteron were to form the standard coinage of the Komnenian period. Pre reform coinage 1081-1092 Silver Alloy Miliaresion, Constantinople, 1081-92. 1.77 gr. 24.5 mm. 5 hr. Sear 1897; DO 10. Obverse: Virgin orans; reverse: emperor standing, holding long cross and resting hand on sword. Electrum Aspron Trachy, Thessalonica, 1082-87. 4.29 gr. 27.8 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1905; DO 5a. Bust of Christ on obverse; on the reverse St. Demetrius offers to emperor on right a patriarchal cross on a long shaft. Silver Tetarteron, Thessalonica, 1081-87. 3.75 gr. 17.2 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1906; DO 8. Bust of Virgin orans, a small medallion with the infant Christ on her breast / emperor holds a jeweled scepter and globus cruciger. Silver Tetarteron, Thessalonica, 1087-92. 3.85 gr. 18.9 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1907; DO 9. Christ seated on obverse; the reverse has a bust of Alexios holding a labarum and an akakia. Post reform coinage 1092-1118 Hyperpyron, Constantinople, 1092-1118. 4.40 gr. 30.7 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1913; DO 20g. The obverse bears an enthroned Christ; on the reverse, the emperor holds a labarum and globus cruciger. Note the exaggerated beading of his robe in the right field. The coinage reform of 1092 saw the introduction of a gold coin of reasonable fineness of 21 carats. Electrum Aspron Trachy, Thessalonica, 1092-1118. 4.01 gr. 30.1 mm. 4 hr. Sear 1926; DO 23a. The obverse bears an enthroned Christ, but it is almost entirely worn away. A prominent XP graffito was placed, perhaps to replace the worn image of the Savior. On the reverse , the emperor, on the left, is crowned by the Virgin, on the right. Pb. Tetarteron, Constantinople, 1092-3. 5.43 gr. 20.7 mm. 6 hr. Not in Sear; DO 32. This lead tetarteron is a coronation issue celebrating the accession of the young John II as co-Augustus with his father. On the obverse, Christ and John hold a labarum. On the reverse, John’s parents, Alexios and Irene hold a long cross. Pb. Tetarteron, uncertain mint, 1092-3. 2.45 gr. 18 mm. 7 hr. Not in Sear; DO 42. On the obverse, a bust of Christ raises His right hand, and holds in His left, an open Gospel book. On the reverse, the emperor holds a long cross and a globus cruciger.

On the accession of John I Tzimiskes in 969, the follis undergoes a significant change. The emperor’s portrait and titles disappear from the coinage until the reign of Constantine X. Replacing the traditional designs, the coins bear an image of Christ on the obverse, and on the reverse an inscription in several lines proclaiming “Jesus Christ, King of kings”, although several of the later classes feature on the reverse either an image of Mary, or a cross decorated in various ways. This class of coins is known as the Anonymous Folles or Anonymous Bronzes. It is rare that Byzantine historians mention specific coin developments, so it is worth quoting the eleventh century historian, John Skylitzes: “And he [John I] ordered also the image of the Savior to be engraved on the nomisma and the obol [i.e., copper coin], which had not been done before this. And Greek letters were engraved on the other side to about this effect: “Jesus Christ, King of Kings.” And the emperors who succeeded him did likewise.” Although the attribution to John of the creation of the first gold coins with an image of Christ is in error, otherwise the statement is reliable, especially when considering the earliest classes and their occasional overstrikes. No folles are known for John , and the earlier classes are often overstruck on coins of Nikephoros II, Constantine VII, and Michael VIII, for example. Grierson provides a good summary of the coinage in DOC 3:2, pp. 634-47, and the Sear Byzantine book also contains a useful section on the series. Class A1 ca. 970-76. 6.27 gr. 27.8 mm. 5 hr. Sear 1793; DO-A1.6-13. Overstruck on a follis of Nikephoros II. Class A2, var. 5. Ca. 976-1035. 13.86 gr. 32 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1813; DO–A2.21. Class B. Ca. 1030-42. 15.16 gr. 36 mm. 5 hr. Sear 1823; DO-B.1-64. Class C. Ca. 1042-50. 9.09 gr. 31 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1825; DO-C.1-48. Ex Hunt collection. Sotheby’s 6/21/91, lot 228 (part). Class D. Ca. 1050-60. 11.65 gr. 29 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1836; DO-D.1-34. Class E. Ca. 1060. 7.11 gr. 28 mm. 5 hr. Sear 1855; DO-E.1-8. Class F. Ca. 1060-65. 9.77 gr. 28.4 mm. 12 hr. Sear 1856; DO-F.1-15. Overstruck on a Class E follis. Class G. Ca. 1065-70. 9.21 gr. 28.6 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1867; DO-G.1-28. Class H. Ca. 1070-75. 6.65 gr. 27 mm. 5 hr. Sear 1880; DO-H.1-19. Class I. Ca. 1075-80. 9.31 gr. 27 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1889; DO-I.1-64. Overstruck on a follis of Michael VII, whose inscription [MIX]ΑΗΛ RACIΛ Ο Δ is visible on the reverse. Ex Hunt collection. Sotheby’s 6/21/91, lot 228 (part). Class J. Ca. 1080-85. 6.69 gr. 25 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1900(this coin) ; DO-J.1-14. Sear plate coin. Ex Hunt collection. Sotheby’s 6/21/91, lot 228 (part). Class K. Ca. 1085-92. 4.93 gr. 23.8 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1901; DO-K.1-26. Nikephoros Basilakios rebelled against Nikephoros III Botaneiates, 1077-78. The emperor’s forces besieged Thessalonike, where the rebel was entrenched but the population surrendered him and he was blinded. Follis, Thessalonike, 1077-78. 5.23 gr. 24.5 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1890; DO 2c (Bryennios). Bust of Christ / patriarchal cross between C – B / N - B Grierson, in DOC 3:2, pp. 833-35 discusses the reasons for attributing the issue between Basilakios and Bryennios.

Constantine X (1059-67) Mint of all coins is Constantinople. 2/3 Miliaresion, 1.42 gr. 22.4 mm. 4 hr. Sear 1851; DO 6 var.; BNP 4-9; BM 9 var.; R. 2013 var. Although lacking a portrait of Constantine, the reverse inscription invokes the Virgin’s aid for “Constantine Doukas, the Despotes”. Follis, 7.56 gr. 29 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1853; DO 8; BNP 1-29; BM 18-31; R. 2021-24. The reverse features standing figures of Eudokia and Constantine, holding a labarum. Follis, 6.32 gr. 28.5 mm. 4 hr. Sear 1854; DO 9; BNP 31-43; BM 32-37; R. 2018-19. On the reverse is a bust of the emperor, holding a cross and akakia. Romanos IV, (emperor 1068-71). Mint of all coins is Constantinople. 2/3 Miliaresion, 0.88 gr. 18.3 mm. 5 hr. Sear 1864; DO 6a; BNP 1. As on the first coin above of Constantine X (Sear 1851), although lacking a portrait of Romanos, the reverse inscription invokes the Virgin’s aid for “Romanos Diogenes, the Despotes”. 1/3 Miliaresion, 0.75 gr. 16.2 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1865A; DO 7; BNP 2 (Romanos III) ; BM 8. The emperor’s bust on the reverse holds a patriarchal cross and globus cruciger. Follis, 7.64 gr. 29 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1866; DO 8; BNP 1-5; BM 9-13; R. 2030-31. Although lacking the emperor’s portrait, the four letters C R P Δ surrounding the cross are to be understood as: ΣTAYPΕ BOΗΘΕI PΩMANΩ ΔΕΣΠOTΗ: Σταυρε βοηθει Ρωμανω Δεσποτη = Oh, Cross, aid Romanos, the Despotes. (The letter “Β” in epigraphy of the period has the form of “R”.) Michael VII (emperor 1071-78) Mint of all coins is Constantinople. Histamenon Nomisma. 4.31 gr. 28 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1868; DO 2c; BNP 1-10; BM 5-7. The emperor on the reverse holds a labarum and globus cruciger. Histamenon Nomisma. 4.37 gr. 28.3 mm 6 hr. Sear 1869; DO 1; BM 1. Reverse all as before. Tetarteron Nomisma. 3.99 gr. 18.6 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1872; DO 5b; R. 2044. On the reverse, Michael and Maria hold a long cross. Miliaresion. 1.88 gr. 24.1 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1873; DO 7b; BNP 1; R. 2036. The reverse displays a standing Michael holding a long cross and sword. Miliaresion 1071-78. 1.91 gr. 23 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1874; DO 6b2 var. BNP 2; BM 17; R. 2047. Ex Hunt collection. Sotheby’s Dec. 5-6, 1990, lot 858. Interestingly, the obverse inscription hearkens back to the famous vision of Constantine and the heavenly cross, as expressed n mid 4th c. coins in Latin as well as under Constans II in the 7th c. in Greek: Hoc signo victor eris and Εν τουτω νικα. Here we have: ΕΝ ΤΟΥΤΩ ΝΙΚΑΤΕ ΜΙΧΑΗΛ ΚΑΙ ΜΑΡΙΑ: Εν τουτω νικατε Μιχαηλ και Μαρια = Michael and Maria, in This conquer. This Constantinian reference is found on several miliaresia of different reigns of this period, for example, that of Nikephoros III, the last coin below. Michael VII (emperor 1071-78) Mint of all coins is Constantinople. 2/3 Miliaresion, 1.41 gr. 20.5 mm. 5 hr. Sear 1875; DO (11b); BNP 6; BM 21. As in the next coin, the reverse invokes the Virgin’s aid for “Michael Doukas, the despotes”. 2/3 Miliaresion, 1.29 gr. 21 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1876; DO 8.2 var. BNP 7 var. R. 2037 Follis, 4.53 gr. 26 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1878; DO 14a; BNP 1-11; BM 24-25; R. 2041. The reverse depicts a bust of Michael holding a labarum and globus cruciger. Half Follis, 2.86 gr. 22 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1880A; DO 15. This is the last bronze issue that is a fractional part of a follis. Reverse as before. Nikephoros III, (emperor 1078-81) Histamenon Nomisma, 4.35 gr. 30.2 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1881; DO 3b; BM 7-9; R. 2051. The reverse has a figure of Nikephoros holding a labarum and globus cruciger. Miliaresion, 1.43 gr. 23.2 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1886; DO 6. Like the miliaresion of Michael VII (Sear 1874) above, the obverse features busts of Nikephoros III and Michael’s widow, now wife to his successor, with the same “Constantinian” legend, the name Nikephoros now substituted for that of Michael: ΕΝ ΤΟΥΤΩ ΝΙΚΑΤΕ ΝΙΚΗΦΟΡΕ ΚΑΙ ΜΑΡΙΑ: Εν τουτω νικατε Νικηφορε και Μαρια.

Constantine VIII, 1025-28. The first two are a repeat from the previous post; this time Constantine VIII is in the spotlight, although the coins were struck while his brother Basil was de facto senior Augustus. Tetarteron, Constantinople, ca. 1005-1025. 4.22 gr. 19.8 mm. 7 hr. Sear 1806; DO 15b; BNP 19-20; BM 5-6; R. 1940. On the reverse, busts of Basil, bearded and his brother Constantine, beardless. They hold together a patriarchal cross. Miliaresion, Constantinople, 977-89. 2.74 gr. 25.8 mm. 11 hr. Sear 1811; DO 18a; R. 1947. Busts of Basil and Constantine as before, on either side of a patriarchal cross on steps. Romanos III Argyros , emperor (1028–34). On his deathbed Constantine VIII married his daughter Zoe to Romanos, who ascended the throne on Constantine’s death. However, the new emperor soon proved unequal to the task. Imagining himself a great general, a second Trajan, Romanos forced a quarrel on the emir of Aleppo and in midsummer 1030 marched on that city. This resulted in a catastrophic defeat for the Romans and the emperor only survived by a hasty retreat to Constantinople. In Syria only the efforts of George Maniakes resulted in Roman victories. In vain Romanos tried to continue Basil II's aggressive policy in Sicily. Romanus had also been having long-standing difficulties with his wife Zoe which had begun when the couple were unable to conceive due to their advanced ages. Both Romanus and Zoe took lovers, and historians claim that Zoe poisoned Romanus and later had him killed in his bath in order to put her lover, the future Michael IV, on the throne. Romanus III Argyrus, Histamenon Nomisma, Constantinople, 1028-34. 4.40 gr. 24.7 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1819; DO 1b.8; BM 1-3; R. 1973. Romanos was devoted to the Virgin Mary, who is pictured crowning the emperor on the reverse. Romanus III Argyrus, Constantinople, 1030. AR Miliaresion, 2.83 gr. 25 mm. 7 hr. Sear 1822; DO (3b.1) = ANS Inv. 1030.1963.38.1 Although unfortunately holed and slightly bent, this is a coin I never thought to own until a recent lucky acquisition. The emperor’s devotion to the cult of the Virgin is evident by the obverse figure of the standing Theotokos (bearer of God) holding an infant Christ. This image is known as the Virgin Hodegetria (“She who shows the way”), and is derived from a famous icon of the type alleged to have been painted by St. Luke himself. On the reverse, Romanos is portrayed standing, holding a patriarchal cross and a globe surmounted by a patriarchal cross. The associations of the Hodegetria were military in nature. It had long been the custom before setting out on a military expedition for the general to pray for protection and victory before this precious icon. If the issuance of this remarkable coin is linked to the ill executed attack on Aleppo in 1030, well, what can I say? In addition to its beauty, I have always been drawn to this coin for its inscription, starting on the obverse and continuing to the reverse: + ΠAPΘЄNЄ COI ΠOΛVAINЄ / OC HΛΠIKЄ ΠANTA KATOPΘOI. (My dear friend @Valentinian has repeatedly urged me to write Greek in capitals, as he maintains these are familiar to more people than regular sentence case; although I don’t find this true for myself, I bow to his helpful suggestion. 😊) This beautiful inscription is special because it is metrical – it’s a hexameter verse (think Homer and Virgil), reading: “Παρθενε σοι πολυαινε, ος ηλπικε παντα κατορθοι” ("In you, Virgin much-praised, he who has hoped, makes all things upright)". While metrical inscriptions appear with regularity on Byzantine seals, there are only two instances of verse legends on the coinage. As Joan Fagerlie noted of the remarkable instance of the metrical inscription of this coin in her ANS MN 1964 article: A miliaresion of Romanus III and a nomisma of Michael IV, : “Only one other instance is known in the Byzantine series - that of an iambic trimeter legend on an issue of Constantine IX…” An example of this coin (Sear 1834) is below. Alas, save for Constantine IX, I lack signed coins of the period Michael IV – Isaac I. Hope to see some from other posters! Constantine IX Monomachos, emperor (1042–1055). Following a brief period of instability during the joint rule of Zoe and Theodora upon the death of Michael V, Constantine, who had been exiled to Mytilene by Michael IV was recalled to wed Zoe (11 June 1042) and crowned the next day. Although under his reign literature and the arts flourished, the Empire was less successful in handling external threats. An event that would prove disastrous in the long run was the schism between the eastern and western churches. Constantine IX, Monomachos, Constantinople, 1042-55. Miliaresion. 2.73 gr. 30 mm. 6 hr. Sear 1834; DO 7b; BNP 1-7; BM 17; R. 1989. As noted in the Fagerlie article above, this is the only other instance of a metrical inscription on a Byzantine coin. As on the Romanos III example, the inscription begins on the obverse and continues to the reverse: ΔΕCΠΟΙΝΑ CΩΖΟΙC / ΕΥCΕΒΗ ΜΟΜΟΜΑΧΟΝ (Δεσποινα σωζοις ευσεβη Μονομαχον = “Lady, save the pious Monomachos.”) Constantine IX, Monomachos, Constantinople, 1042-55. Two thirds Miliaresion. 2.10 gr. 25 mm. 5 hr. Sear 1835; DO8a; R. 1990. Holed and plugged in antiquity.