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)
 
Historical Background
Constans II was the Byzantine Emperor from AD 641 to 668. He ascended the throne as a child during a time of great political and religious upheaval, including the Arab conquests and internal dissent within the empire. His reign was marked by military campaigns in both the East and West, attempts to stabilize the empire, and efforts to reconcile theological divisions in the Christian Church.
Despite facing invasions and palace intrigue, Constans II was known for his resilience and strategic mind. He later moved his capital to Syracuse in Sicily, a controversial decision that foreshadowed his eventual assassination. His coins often bear the inscription EN TVTO NIKA—meaning "In This, Conquer"—a Christianized echo of earlier imperial mottoes, invoking divine favor and imperial strength.
 
The Coin’s Journey
This bronze follis was struck in the Byzantine mint, likely Constantinople, during the reign of Constans II in the mid-7th century AD. It features the imperial motto EN TVTO NIKA—a declaration of divine protection in battle. The reverse displays the denomination “M” (40 nummi), flanked by the mint identifiers ANA and NEOS, with an officina numeral below. Up to 45 known combinations exist, each reflecting the complexity and order of Byzantine fiscal systems.
 
In its time, this coin would have circulated widely—traded in markets, paid to soldiers, and used in ports and garrison towns across the Eastern Mediterranean. A single follis might have purchased a modest meal, a loaf of bread, or other daily goods. Over decades, the coin would have traveled via merchant ships and trade caravans, its surfaces gradually darkening with the touch of many hands.
As Byzantine power declined in the western provinces, the coin continued to change hands—perhaps arriving in Hispania through trade or military transport. Eventually, it was lost to time, buried in earth as Rome's eastern legacy faded from the Iberian Peninsula.
 
Centuries later, in the late 1800s, your coin was rediscovered as part of the famed Murcia Collection, a private hoard belonging to a Spanish nobleman with a passion for antiquity. Stored in leather satchels, the collection remained hidden for generations in the attic of a noble estate.
During modern renovations, caretakers uncovered this long-forgotten treasure. Your Constans II follis was among the recovered pieces—carefully cleaned, authenticated, and preserved using Renaissance Wax. It now rests in a museum-grade mount, accompanied by this certificate.
 
From the halls of Constantinople to a noble house in Spain, your coin has journeyed across time, war, faith, and forgotten history—now finding its place with you.