Byzantine Follis

The Byzantine Follis, introduced in 498 AD under Emperor Anastasius I, was a hefty bronze coin that weighed up to 40 grams—twice as much as its predecessors—to enforce a new monetary standard and curb inflation.

This made it the workhorse of the Byzantine economy for centuries. Struck in mints across the empire, including Constantinople and Thessalonica, it facilitated trade from markets in Greece to the fringes of Asia Minor. Variants show emperors like Justinian on the obverse, often with a cross on the reverse, blending authority with faith.

Exact mintage numbers are murky; records burned in various sacks and fires. Still, its size meant it doubled as a makeshift weight in markets.

One dry observation: in a pinch, it could pass for a small anchor.