Normally I don't buy ancients at a flea market but in this case I bought these three out of a small batch ($20 for the three) if for no other reason the smooth patina. One appears to be a Justin and Sophie follis, the other larger follis is probably Anastasias or maybe Justinian. The third, the little one, I cannot identify and it may not be Byzantine at all. Any help on attribution of the smaller one appreciated. Thanks
That's a nice group for twenty bucks! The third coin alone is worth more than that . The third coin is Greek, from ~4th-3rd century BCE Phokis. Here's an example from CNG's archives: PHOKIS, Federal Coinage. After 351 BC. Æ (15mm, 2.40 g, 6h). Struck under Phalaikos or later. Head of Athena facing slightly right / Φ within wreath. BCD Lokris 470.4 (this coin). Good VF, green patina. Here are similar coins of Phokis currently for sale on Vcoins.
The one on the far left is actually a follis of Phocas (602-610) from Theopolis (Antioch). It also shows his wife Leontia. It looks like it's from year 5, so it was made in 607.
Thanks. I admit to being a bit shaky on my Byzantine attributions. As it turns out I don't have Phocas piece. Any idea on whether the larger follis is Anastasias or Justinian?
I have been trying to figure it out by comparing the images on the coins of Anastasias, Justin I and Justinian but they all look pretty much alike to me. I thought, just possibly, that it might be Sear 62
Yes and I have to admit that I will be going back to this guy's table next week as he told me he has a number of more coins like this and will bring them next week. I sure hope the weather is good.