Historical Context – Constans II (641–668 AD)
Emperor Constans II ruled the Byzantine Empire during one of its most turbulent eras. Ascending to the throne at just 11 years old, Constans faced significant territorial losses, particularly in Egypt and North Africa, to the rapidly expanding Umayyad Caliphate. His reign was marked by continuous military and economic strain, reflected in variations in coin shape and weight as the empire sought stability amidst constant threat.
Despite difficulties, Constans II attempted vital reforms, aiming to reorganize and stabilize Byzantine governance and the economy. His coinage not only served practical purposes but also conveyed crucial imperial propaganda: depicting himself as a firm and legitimate ruler backed by divine authority.
 
Economic Significance and Usage
This 40 nummi bronze follis would have circulated widely in daily Byzantine trade and commerce. Typical purchases could include bread, vegetables, oil, small amounts of wine, or basic household goods. The consistent denomination of "M" provided citizens a trusted medium of exchange during uncertain economic times.
 
The Byzantine Journey: A Coin’s Tale (641–668 AD)
 
Minted in the Great City (Constantinople)
Your coin’s journey began in the imperial mint of Constantinople, the heart of Byzantine power, around 650 AD. Skilled craftsmen carefully prepared the bronze flan and struck it sharply, imprinting the youthful Emperor Constans II—standing tall, crowned, and holding symbols of divine Christian authority. Fresh from the mint, the coin shone brightly, its inscriptions and imagery clear, proudly symbolizing the empire’s unity and faith during uncertain times.
 
Life in Byzantine Markets
Leaving the imperial mint, your coin entered bustling marketplaces of Constantinople, one of the medieval world’s most sophisticated and vibrant cities. It passed from merchants to fishermen, from bakers to soldiers, purchasing daily staples like bread, fruits, fish, wine, and olive oil. Perhaps it was exchanged near the crowded harbor of the Golden Horn, or in bustling markets near the majestic Hagia Sophia, witnessing vibrant scenes of daily life.
 
Travel and Trade in a Changing Empire
Over time, your coin traveled with traders across the Byzantine Empire's vast network. Merchants carried it on caravans heading west to Thrace, eastward toward Anatolia, or even southward toward territories still loyal to Constantinople. Its smooth, worn edges and beautiful patina today reflect countless exchanges, each one capturing the rhythm of Byzantine commerce and society.
 
Lost and Hidden
Perhaps amid a hurried exchange, invasion, or the shifting sands of historical uncertainty, your coin was accidentally dropped or carefully hidden—buried safely in soft earth, gradually acquiring its characteristic deep green patina as centuries passed quietly above.
 
Rediscovery and Preservation
Centuries later, in modern Turkey, careful archaeological exploration revealed your coin once more. Cleaned gently, its clearly defined features, including Emperor Constans II and the iconic "M" marking its value, re-emerged. Now, collectors and historians appreciate its beauty and historical significance, seeing it as an extraordinary relic of the resilience of the Byzantine world during a pivotal historical period.
 
The Shape: The coin's irregular shape was due to clipping portions of the coin in the days it was circulated as "change", taking a portion of the bronze to melt or in trade.  This is extremely common in Byzantine coins.