Michael VII, Histamenon Nomisma, 1071-1078
Constantinople - Electrum - EF(40-45)
Bust of Christ facing, wearing nimbus crucigere, pallium and colobium, and raising right hand; in left hand, book of Gospels; pellets above captions.
Bust of Michael VII facing, bearded, crowned, wearing loros, holding a labarum in his right hand and a globus cruciger in his left.
IX-XC
+ MIXAHΛ RACIΛ O Δ
4.31 gr
An “EF(40-45)” quality
As in numismatics it is important that the state of conservation of an item be carefully evaluated before it is offered to a discerning collector with a keen eye.
This initially obscure acronym comprising two words describing the state of conservation is explained clearly here:
Extremely Fine
This means – more prosaically – that the coin has circulated well from hand to hand and pocket to pocket but the impact on its wear remains limited: the coins retains much of its mint luster, sharp detailing and little sign of being circulated. Closer examination with the naked eye reveals minor scratches or nicks.