Coin

"33 nummi" (denomination); DO# 273; Sear# 246. "AΛE[Ξ" 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. The 33 nummia coin was a special denomination only minted in Alexandria and only circulated in Egypt.

The face of the emperor on coins was a symbol of his authority. Justinian I is depicted forward facing on this coin, emphasizing the station of the emperor over the person of Justinian himself. His cuirass, helmet and shield symbolize his military role, and the globus cruciger signifies the heavenly basis of Imperial rule. These symbols combined portray the emperor as a holy Christian warrior.

Byzantine coin of Justinian I, 527-565. Obverse: bust of Justinian I, facing forward, with diadem, cuirass, and helmet with plume; to left, he holds a globus cruciger; to right, he holds a shield; above shield, there is a cross; to left, inscription says ‘DNIVSTINI’; to right, ‘ANVSPPAVC’. Reverse: large ‘ΛΓ'; above, a cross; in exergue, ‘AΛE[Ξ]’.