This pendant features a large and beautifully preserved Byzantine bronze follis, struck in Constantinople during the reign of Michael IV the Paphlagonian (AD 1034–1041). The obverse shows Christ Antiphonetes, the Merciful Judge, his right hand raised in blessing and his left holding the book of gospels. A cross nimbus radiates behind his head, an unmistakable mark of divine authority. The reverse bears a jeweled cross flanked by the sacred inscription IC XC / NI KA—“Jesus Christ Conquers.” The coin has been hand-set in a custom sterling silver bezel, hammered and polished to fit its contours, and comes with a matching sterling silver chain.
The History
Anonymous folles like this were issued in Byzantium at a time when coins carried spiritual rather than imperial portraits. By replacing the image of emperors with that of Christ, the state reaffirmed that divine authority stood above political rule. This example was even overstruck on an earlier Class B follis, adding layers of history and continuity of faith. The inscription IC XC NI KA further reflected the Byzantine belief in Christ as the eternal guarantor of victory, legitimacy, and protection.
Coin Details
Type: Anonymous follis, Class C (Sear 1825)
Date: AD 1034–1041
Ruler: Michael IV (Anonymous issue)
Mint: Constantinople
Obverse: Christ Antiphonetes, cross nimbus, right hand raised, book of gospels in left
Reverse: Jeweled cross, IC XC / NI KA within limbs
Diameter: 27 mm
Weight: 5.89 g
Material: Bronze (overstruck on Class B follis)
What’s Included
Authentic Byzantine bronze follis, set in sterling silver
Sterling silver chain (18–20 inch adjustable)
Signed certificate of authenticity with historical notes
Velvet-lined presentation box
Polishing cloth and care instructions
Free insured U.S. shipping, worldwide shipping available
The Peregrine Collection
The Peregrine Collection represents the finest of our offerings—rare or historically significant coins, each set in a fully hand-forged 18k gold bezel and paired with a dainty 14k gold chain. Every bezel is shaped, hammered, and polished entirely by hand to follow the natural contours of the ancient coin, ensuring both secure preservation and refined presentation. No two settings are ever alike, making each pendant a singular work of wearable history.
Byzantine Christ Portrait in Silver
Sterling Silver
$550.00
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Testimonials
My four daughters absolutely LOVED them! Your work is excellent and the pendants look great- Thank you!
— Eva S.
Thank you for making this spectacular necklace! I provided the denarius of Julia Domna, and they did the rest. I was delighted with the results - and so (more importantly) was my girlfriend.
— Garrett Ryan from Toldinstone
Got the ring today! Love it!
— Margaret B.
The Athenian Owl pendants are awesome! We're saving the gift for a special occasion. My wife loved it, she got it and was all hushed quiet, that smile while opening and handling it for the first few minutes. It's special.
— Joe E.
OMG the coin. It’s sooo gorgeous. I love it so so so so much. Thank you for keeping me in mind and finding this piece of perfection for me.
— Cecilia A.
Curated Classics. History in Every Piece
FAQs
Are all coins authentic?
Yes — all coins are genuine, not replicas. Fakes are rare because good forgeries take too much effort for low-value coins, and bad ones are easy to spot.
Where are your coins bought?
Mostly from reputable ancient coin auctions in Europe and the USA, plus private collections.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we proudly ship worldwide. Shipping options and times vary by country — you’ll see available methods at checkout.
Can I send you my own coin to make a pendant?
Absolutely! We love turning personal coins into wearable pieces. Just email us at info@peregrinependants.com to discuss your custom order.
What if my pendant needs repair?
If your pendant ever needs repair or resizing, contact us — we’re happy to help keep your piece in top shape.
