This is a Byzantine bronze follis of Constantine VII Porphyrogenitus, struck during the period when he ruled under the authority and influence of his mother, Zoe Karbonopsina. These coins date to approximately A.D. 914–919, during one of those classic Byzantine power arrangements where the “emperor” was technically on the throne, but Mom was very much holding the steering wheel.

The obverse shows Constantine VII and Zoe facing forward, crowned and holding a long patriarchal cross between them. The reverse carries a bold multi-line inscription naming Constantine and Zoe as rulers/emperors of the Romans.

Byzantine bronzes from this period are rarely pretty in the modern sense — and that is exactly the point. This coin is dark, crude, worn, and absolutely loaded with history. It comes from an empire that was still calling itself Roman nearly 900 years after Augustus, while the medieval world was busy rearranging itself with fire, theology, family drama, and sharp objects.

This is not some polished tourist trinket pretending to be ancient. This is a real-deal Byzantine bronze from the early 10th century, struck under Constantine VII and Zoe, mother and son, in one of the most politically messy courts in medieval history.

Details:

Empire: Byzantine Empire
Ruler: Constantine VII Porphyrogenitus with Zoe
Denomination: AE Follis
Mint: Constantinople
Date: A.D. 914–919
Obverse: Crowned facing busts of Constantine VII and Zoe, holding a long patriarchal cross between them
Reverse: Multi-line inscription naming Constantine and Zoe as rulers/emperors of the Romans
Metal: Bronze
Reference: Sear Byzantine 1758 / DOC 22 type
Condition: Ancient bronze with honest wear, dark patina, surface roughness, and visible inscriptions/design elements