Nicephorus Bryennius, pretender, 1077-1078. AE follis 27.4 mm. 8.51 g.

Bust of Christ facing, nimbate and with cross behind head, holding scroll.
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 tried to overthrow the weak regime of Michel VII. 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 sent General Alexius Comnenus against the two rebels and quickly overcame their uprising, leaving Nicephorus III in full control of the Empire.

With permission of Bucephalus auction 21, lot 716, June 2024.
Sold for 340 Euro.