Coin

“12 nummi” (denomination); DO# 189; Sear# 853. “AΛEΞ” translates to "Mint: Alexandria'.
This type of coin, the follis, is a large bronze coin that was introduced by the Emperor Anastasius in 498, marking a large departure from the Roman system of coinage inherited by the Byzantine Empire. It was the model for bronze Byzantine coinage for 200 years, facilitating small-scale trade and commerce. Originally, the basic follis in Constantinople was a heavy coin worth 40 nummia, with smaller follis parts equaling 20, 10, or 5 nummia. When the coin was debased and made lighter the value of it would decrease. Each provincial mints had their own divisions. In Alexandria the mint continuously produced follis parts worth 12, 6, and 3 nummia, until the province was lost to the Arab conquests. The 12 nummia coin made up the majority of the local small currency, circulating only within Egypt.

The face of the emperor on coins was a symbol of his authority. On this coin both the emperor and his son, Heraclius Constantine, are depicted. The purpose of showing multiple imperial individuals on a coin was to familiarize the public with Heraclius’ intended successor, and signify the heir’s legitimacy. The crowns with crosses both wear emphasized the Christian nature of both the emperor and the empire.

Byzantine coin of Heraclius, 610-641. Obverse: two busts, facing forwards; to left, Heraclius; to right, Heraclius Constantine, his son; each wears a crown with cross; inscriptions are illegible. Reverse: cross resting on two steps; to left, ‘I’; to right, ‘B’; in exergue, ‘AΛEΞ’.