Civilization: Byzantine Empire
Ruler: Heraclius
Mint: Constantinople
Year: 620 - 621 AD
Composition: Bronze
Denomination: Follis
Diameter: 25.4mm
Weight: 7.14g
Reference:

Obverse
Heraclius, Heraclius Constantine, and Martina, all standing facing, each wearing a crown and chlamys and holding globus crucigers

Reverse
Large M, flanked by ANNO and X (Regnal Year 10 = 620/621), below mintmark CON (Constantinople)

Heraclius, who reigned as Byzantine Emperor from 610 to 641 CE, is best known for his transformative military campaigns and religious policies during a critical era in Byzantine history. Facing early crises, he rebuilt the Byzantine army and launched a successful counteroffensive against the Sasanian Empire, reclaiming lost territories and restoring the True Cross to Jerusalem in 630 CE. However, his later years were marked by the rapid expansion of the Islamic Caliphate, which overtook much of Byzantium’s territory in the Levant, Egypt, and North Africa. Heraclius also sought to unify Christian factions within the empire through the doctrine of Monothelitism, though it sparked internal theological disputes. Despite these challenges, Heraclius' reign is remembered for his resilience, military skill, and significant (though ultimately fleeting) victories against formidable adversaries.