Rare Usurper

CNG 90, Lot: 1958. Estimate $1000. Sold for $3000. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

Nicephorus Basilacius. Usurper, 1078. Æ Follis (24mm, 5.97 g, 2h). Thessalonica mint. Facing bust of Christ Pantokrator / Jewelled patriarchal cross set on base; C B/ N B in quarters. DOC 2c (Nicephorus Bryennius); SB 1890. VF, green-brown patina with earthen highlights. Overstruck on uncertain undertype. Extremely rare.

Nicephorus Basilacius was a rebel general who held the city of Thessalonica during the summer of 1078, revolting against the legitimate emperor Nicephorus III, Botaniates. He was overcome by Alexius Comnenus, a loyal general, but one who soon turned against Botaniates when Alexius' brother-in-law, Nicephorus Melissenus, also revolted.