Byzantine Empire: Justin II & Sophia (AD 565–578) Large Bronze Follis (40 Nummi)

Byzantine Empire: Justin II & Sophia (AD 565–578) Large Bronze Follis (40 Nummi)

Historical Overview

The reason this piece stands out for its impressive 32mm+ planchet is that it belongs to the early "heavy standard" copper issues of Justin II (nephew of Justinian I) and his powerful empress, Sophia. Struck at the main imperial mint in Constantinople, the obverse prominently features the imperial couple seated side-by-side on a double throne—a famous motif celebrating their joint rule.

Item Specifications

• Issuing Authority: Justin II & Empress Sophia

• Date of Issue: Regnal Year 10 (ANNO X, c. AD 574/575)

• Denomination: Large Follis / 40 Nummi

• Metal: Bronze

• Planchet Dimensions: 32.27 mm x 32.63 mm (Unusually large, broad-flan early standard)

• Mint: Constantinople Mint (Mintmark CON in exergue)

• Officina (Workshop): 4th Workshop (Δ beneath the large M)

• Obverse Description: Justin II (right) and Sophia (left) seated facing on a throne, both nimbate, holding cross-topped globes and scepters.

• Reverse Description: Large denomination letter M (Greek numeral for 40 nummi) flanked by ANNO on the left and Regnal Year X (Year 10) on the right; Christian cross above, officina letter Δ below.

• Patina / Surface: Heavily patinated with a green malachite surface layer and reddish cuprite undertones, exhibiting authentic uncleaned earthen deposits.

"An impressively large 6th-century Byzantine bronze follis struck under Emperor Justin II and Empress Sophia. Measuring over 32mm across, this broad-flan 40-Nummi coin depicts the emperor and empress seated side-by-side on a imperial throne, with a massive denomination 'M' on the reverse. Featuring full regnal year details (Year 10) and an authentic green earthen patina.