These big, bronze coins, minted 976-1035, feature the image of Jesus Christ. The reverse was originally a Greek inscription reading "Jesus Christ, King of Kings" although subsequent issues varied. Originally introduced by Emperor Johannes I Tzimisces in the 10th century, they were struck by subsequent emperors until the end of the First Crusade. The Byzantine Empire comprised the Eastern half of the Roman Empire that survived and flourished after the fall of the city of Rome in the 5th century. Its capital city of Constantinople was the epicenter of Christian life, art and culture for centuries. Our fascinating, ancient specimens are slabbed and certified authentic by NGC.