Nicephorus Bryennius, pretender, 1077-8. AE follis 6.94g, uncertain mint. 

Obv: Bust of Christ facing, nimbate and with cross behind head, holding scroll.
Rev. Patriarchal cross on two steps, C-[B]-N-[B] in the four angles of the cross. 

DOC 1a; Sear 1890A (attributed to Nicephorus Basilacius). Fine/very fine with dark patina, very rare.

In 1077 Nicephorus Bryennius, Duke of Dyrrhachium, decided to try and overthrow the weak regime of Michel VII. The general Nicephorus Basilacius was sent against him, but the two Nicephori combined forces and Basilacius took possession of Thessalonica while Bryennius advanced on the capital. However, in the meantime Michael's weak regime had already been toppled by a third Nicephorus (Botaniates). The new emperor despatched the general Alexius Comnenus against the two rebels and he quickly overcame their uprising, leaving Nicephorus III in full control of the Empire.
The Christov Family Collection.
Realized $1,323

With permission of Ira and Larry Goldberg, auctioneers. Auction 55,
lot 558.