Arab Byzantine Fals Pseudo Byzantine Type With Countermark Authentic Early Coin

Authentic Early Arab Byzantine Coin – Certificate of Authenticity Included

Details:
Authority: Arab-Byzantine Administration
Denomination: Fals (Æ Bronze)
Date: Circa AD 641–660
Prototype: After Constans II
Reference: cf. Goodwin, ONS Supplement 183 (2005), p. 42, Fig. 1 A9 (countermark)
Diameter: 26 mm
Weight: 3.24 g

Overview:
Arab-Byzantine bronze fals of the early pseudo-Byzantine series, imitating the types of Constans II. The obverse depicts a standing imperial figure holding a globus cruciger and long cross, preserving late Byzantine iconography during the immediate post-conquest period.

The reverse shows a cursive M denomination with cross above and surrounding legend. The coin bears a countermark consistent with early administrative revalidation practices following the Arab conquest, comparable to examples illustrated by T. Goodwin in ONS Supplement 183.

These countermarked issues reflect the continued circulation and adaptation of Byzantine copper under new political authority during the mid-7th century.

Authenticity Check:
Natural patina consistent with 7th-century bronze. Proper early Arab-Byzantine fabric and strike characteristics. Countermark consistent with documented types. No signs of casting or modern tooling.

Comparable Examples:
See T. Goodwin, “Countermarks from after the Arab Conquest,” ONS Supplement 183 (2005), p. 42, Fig. 1 A9.

Further Reading:
David Goodwin, Arab-Byzantine Coinage
ONS publications on early countermarks
Standard Arab-Byzantine references

Condition:
Nearly Very Fine. Clear standing imperial figure and bold cursive M reverse. Countermark visible. Even wear with strong historical character.