Ancient Byzantine Counterfeit Bronze Follis — An Authentic Ancient Forgery

Own a Coin from the Underground Economy of the Byzantine Empire

A real contemporary counterfeit bronze follis produced during the reign of Justin I, created nearly 1,500 years ago to imitate official Byzantine coinage. Today, it survives as a fascinating window into everyday life and commerce in the early Byzantine Empire.

✓ Guaranteed Authentic Ancient Counterfeit
✓ Exact Coin Shown
✓ 30-Day Returns

🏛 Produced nearly 1,500 years ago to imitate official Byzantine coinage
⚖ A rare glimpse into the hidden economy of the early Byzantine Empire
🤲 The exact historic coin pictured is the one you'll receive

Own This Piece of History

Why This Coin Matters

Counterfeit money is almost as old as money itself.

This remarkable bronze follis is not a modern fake. It is an authentic contemporary counterfeit, produced during the reign of Justin I (AD 518–527) by unofficial engravers who closely copied the bronze coins of the Byzantine Empire. Rather than being struck by the imperial mint, this piece was created outside official government control nearly fifteen centuries ago.

It was modeled after the official bronze follis of Justin I struck at Constantinople (Sear Byzantine 62). Although the portrait, legends, and large M denomination mark imitate the genuine issue, the style and workmanship reveal that it was produced by unofficial hands.

Why were coins like this made?

Historians believe contemporary counterfeits entered circulation for several reasons. Shortages of official bronze coinage, strong demand for small change, and the opportunity for profit all likely contributed. Many of these unofficial pieces circulated alongside genuine coins in marketplaces throughout the Byzantine Empire, becoming part of everyday commerce despite their unofficial origins.

Today, ancient contemporary counterfeits are highly collectible because they tell a different side of history—not the story of emperors and mints, but of ordinary people, local workshops, and the realities of life in the ancient economy.

Perfect For

• Collectors of unusual ancient coins
• Byzantine history enthusiasts
• Students of ancient economics
• Collectors of ancient counterfeits and imitative coinage
• Anyone looking for a truly unique conversation piece

Coin Details

• The exact contemporary counterfeit bronze follis pictured
• Civilization: Byzantine Empire (Unofficial Issue)
• Modeled After: Justin I (AD 518–527)
• Century: 6th Century AD
• Prototype: Constantinople Mint
• Denomination: AE Follis (Contemporary Counterfeit)
• Reference Prototype: Sear Byzantine 62
• Guaranteed authentic as an ancient contemporary counterfeit

Buy with Confidence

• Guaranteed authentic ancient coin
• Carefully sourced and attributed
• 30-day return policy
• Secure shipping from the U.S.

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Learn More

Continue the story in the Kinzer Coins Journal: How to Spot Fake Ancient Coins: A Beginner’s Guide.