Byzantine Empire AE Follis of Romanos III Argyros (AD 1028–1034)

A genuine bronze AE follis struck during the reign of Romanos III Argyros, Byzantine emperor from AD 1028 to 1034. His reign belongs to the height of the medieval Byzantine Empire, a period when Constantinople stood among the wealthiest and most influential cities in the world.

This coin circulated during an era in which Byzantine coinage had evolved from celebrating emperors to emphasizing the empire's Christian identity. Bronze folles of Romanos III commonly feature Christ Pantokrator ("Christ the Almighty"), reflecting the central role of faith in Byzantine government, art, and daily life. These coins served not only as currency but also as symbols of imperial authority and religious devotion.

This specimen was acquired directly from detectorist Marius Staszak, who personally recovered it through legal metal detecting activities in Europe. Based on information provided by the finder, this coin forms part of a collection of Roman and medieval coins recovered during a 2025 metal-detecting expedition through Romania and Bulgaria. The exact recovery location for this specimen was not documented at the time of discovery.

Each coin includes a printed provenance record documenting its acquisition directly from the finder and its cataloging into the Jill and the Gems historical collection.

Details

• Emperor: Romanos III Argyros
• Reign: AD 1028–1034
• Type: Byzantine Empire AE Follis (Bronze)
• Collection Number: JTG-B-177
• Provenance: Acquired directly from the finder
• Includes: Printed provenance record

Historical Highlights

• Ruled the Byzantine Empire during the early 11th century.
• Bronze folles of his reign commonly depict Christ Pantokrator, one of the most enduring images in Byzantine art.
• Constantinople was among the largest and wealthiest cities in the medieval world during his reign.
• His coinage reflects the Byzantine Empire's blending of imperial authority with Christian symbolism.
• This coin circulated nearly 1,000 years ago.