Authentic Ancient Bronze Follis: Constantine VI & Empress Irene - Co-Rule Coin

Own a Coin from the Mother Who Blinded Her Own Son to Rule the Byzantine Empire

A real Byzantine bronze follis of Constantine VI and Irene — struck during one of the most dramatic power struggles in medieval history, when a mother and son shared an empire neither was willing to surrender.

$495.00

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👑 Features both Constantine VI and Empress Irene — a rare dual portrait of joint imperial authority
✝ Struck in the aftermath of the Seventh Ecumenical Council of 787 — the restoration of sacred images
🤲 A 2.41g bronze witness to faith, ambition, and one of Byzantium's most shocking betrayals

Own This Piece of History

Why This Coin Matters

When Constantine VI ascended the Byzantine throne as a child, his mother Irene ruled as regent — and she never truly let go. This follis was struck during the years of their joint authority, bearing both portraits side by side in equal prominence. That equality was a statement. In a male-dominated imperial tradition, Irene's image on the reverse of an official coin announced her power to every corner of the empire.

Under her leadership, the Seventh Ecumenical Council of AD 787 restored the veneration of sacred images after decades of Iconoclast controversy — one of the most significant theological decisions in Byzantine history. She had ended a religious civil war and positioned herself as the defender of orthodox Christianity. Her influence was absolute.

It was not enough. In AD 797, Irene deposed her own son Constantine VI and had him blinded — an act that effectively ended his life as emperor. She then ruled alone as empress, the first woman to hold sole imperial authority in Roman history. This coin was struck while that story was still unfolding — a 19mm bronze that carries the full weight of one of the medieval world's most extraordinary and ruthless power struggles.

Perfect for:

• Collectors of Byzantine and medieval Christian coinage
• History lovers drawn to Byzantine court intrigue and female rulership
• Iconoclasm, Orthodox Christianity, and Ecumenical Council enthusiasts
• Anyone looking for a rare, historically charged centerpiece coin

What You'll Receive

• One authentic Byzantine bronze follis of Constantine VI and Irene
• Denomination: AE Follis (copper-alloy bronze)
• Size: 19mm — Weight: 2.41g
• Mint: Constantinople — Struck AD 780–797
• Carefully sourced and verified for authenticity

Buy with Confidence

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

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