From the prevailing numismatic viewpoint (although some scholars may not agree) the beginning of the Byzantine era began with the coinage reform of Anastasius who struck bronze issues with values of 5 (pentanummium), 10 (decanummium), 50 (half follis) and 100 (follis) nummi, while using Greek letters to denote the coin value. During the reigns of the next two Emperors, Justin I and Justinian, the number of differing value bronze coins substantially increased. The following are coins from my collection showing the various coinage issued by Justin or Justinian with the nummi value shown below each piece: The lower value pieces are around 10 to 12mm in diameter, up to the 100 nummi (follis) which varies greatly in size from mint to mint but may easily reach 45mm. In addition to the bronze pieces, silver issues were struck with marks of value of 120, 125 and 250 nummi. Shortly after Justinian the lower value pieces (under 5 nummi) were discontinued as were odd value types like 8 and 33 nummi, but other values such as 20 and 30 nummi were introduced.
Yes, I messed up. That's what you get for doing these things half asleep. Here's the correct pic: I tried to change the original post but for some reason you can't. Sorry about that guys.
