TYPE Byzantine Empire, Michael III ("the Drunkard") (842-867 AD), bronze follis, Syracuse mint DESCRIPTION . Obv: Bust of emperor facing, holding cross potent, Greek legend MIHAEL B around Rev: Denomination (M = 40 nummi) cross above, 'theta' below REFERENCE: SB 1697 GRADING: AVF, porous brown-green patina, scarce ORDER INFO: B2705, $70 Even though his rule was rather long by standards of the Byzantine throne, Michael's coinage is relatively scarce in all metals. The present type is also remarkable for the fact that it is the last appearance of the classical Byzantine denominational reverse bronze coin design - with M here representing the follis of 40 nummia - inaugurated by Anastasius I some 375 years prior.