Ancient Silver Andronicus II Basilikon Portrait of Christ Coin NGC VF

Ancient Silver Coins of Jesus Christ

When news filtered through the coin world that a massive hoard of ancient silver coins had been discovered in Europe we were intrigued. When we learned that these coins had been struck in Constantinople during the last dynasty of the Byzantine Empire, and that they all depicted a portrait of Jesus Christ we felt it was important to take a look at them for ourselves. When we got our first look at these ancient treasures our jaws hit the floor because we were blown away by the amazing condition we found them in. As you can imagine, we jumped at the chance to secure as many of the best coins possible.

But to get the best, we needed an expert. We called in famous numismatist and best-selling author Jeff Garrett. When the Smithsonian® needs help with its National Numismatic Collection, it calls Jeff Garrett. So, we did, too. Garrett was able to sift through the hoard and hand-pick the finest pieces featuring the clearest images of Christ. After Garrett successfully accomplished his mission, we sent the coins he deemed to be the cream of the crop to the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), one of the world’s most respected third-party grading services. And now you can get some of the finest and brightest pieces from that historic hoard graded as being in Very Fine (VF) condition. To quote Jeff Garrett, “To find a modern hoard of ancient coins surviving with this quality is nothing short of incredible.”

Struck between 1304 and 1320 during the decline of the Byzantine Empire, these silver coins are relics of the first Christian empire as it neared its end. Each is a known as a basilikon, a high-grade silver coin. Besides the dramatic portrait of Jesus Christ, each also features Emperor Andronicus II and his son Michael IX. The obverse depicts Christ enthroned, a haloed cross behind his head, wearing the traditional garments of a priest, including a large rectangular cloak known as a pallium worn over a sleeveless shirt called a colobium. In his left hand he holds the book of Gospels while his right hand is raised in benediction. The reverse features Andronicus and Michael wearing crowns and elaborate sashes. Between them they support a banner depicting the “Chi-Rho” symbol for “Christ.” The legend reads “God aid the emperors of the Romans.”

Following the fall of Rome in 476, the Eastern Roman or Byzantine Empire would continue on for nearly another 1,000 years based in its capitol at Constantinople. The reign of Andronicus II (1282–1328) marked the beginning of the end for the Byzantines. The Ottoman Turks advanced into Asia Minor, and though Andronicus paid mercenaries to repel the invaders – perhaps using these very coins? – these hired soldiers eventually turned on their employers, further sending the empire spiraling downwards into chaos.

Don’t wait; claim your own authentic, 700-year-old silver portrait of Christ coin struck during the final dynasty of the Byzantine Empire. Each comes beautifully displayed in a Story Vault holder. Supplies are limited, however, so order now to avoid disappointment later!