Tashir-Dzoraget, Kingdom of Æ Follis - Kiurike II

Posted on: December 1, 2025

keywords: --- ## Discover the Æ Follis Coin of Kiurike II from Tashir-Dzoraget ### Introduction The Æ Follis of Kiurike II is a captivating piece of medieval history, reflecting the rich tapestry of Armenian culture and the Kingdom of Tashir-Dzoraget. Minted between 1048 and 1100, this coin stands out not only for its historical significance but also for its distinctive design that captures the religious and sovereign icons of the era. Collectors and historians alike are drawn to this bronze coin for its artistic and historical value, making it a treasured piece in numismatic circles. ### Historical Background The Kingdom of Tashir-Dzoraget was a prominent Armenian kingdom in the medieval period, strategically located to the north of the larger Armenian principalities. Under the rule of Kiurike II, this kingdom flourished, and the issuance of coins like the Æ Follis signaled both economic prosperity and a strong cultural identity. The coinage of Tashir-Dzoraget not only facilitated trade but also disseminated the kingdom's sovereignty and religious devotion, as seen in the imagery used on the coin. Kiurike II's reign marked a period of relative stability and growth. The Æ Follis coin serves as a testament to the kingdom's prominence during the 11th century, reflecting its connections with the Byzantine Empire and other neighboring states, which influenced its art and coinage. ### Design Features The design of the Æ Follis coin is a remarkable blend of religious iconography and regal imagery. On the obverse, the coin features a bust of Christ, a symbol of divine protection and authority, adorned in a himation. Christ is depicted with a cross nimbate, an iconographic element emphasizing sanctity and spiritual power. This design is accompanied by Armenian inscriptions on either side, further asserting the religious and cultural identity of the kingdom. The reverse of the coin presents five lines of Armenian inscription. While the exact wording varies among surviving specimens, these inscriptions typically convey messages of sovereignty, religious devotion, or the authority of the ruling monarch, Kiurike II. The use of Armenian script on both sides highlights the distinct national identity and linguistic heritage of the kingdom. ### Technical Specifications The Æ Follis of Kiurike II is crafted from bronze, a common material for coinage in the medieval period, balancing durability with cost-effectiveness. The coin weighs approximately 7.11 grams, a standard weight that facilitated trade and economic transactions. While the precise diameter is not specified, coins of this era typically ranged from 20 to 25 millimeters in diameter, offering a practical size for handling and circulation. ### Collectible Value In the world of numismatics, the Æ Follis of Kiurike II is highly regarded for its rarity and historical significance. As a representation of a lesser-known Armenian kingdom, these coins are scarce, with limited numbers surviving to the present day. This rarity, combined with the unique design elements and historical context, makes the Æ Follis a sought-after collectible. The market value of this coin can vary significantly based on its condition, provenance, and specific inscriptions. Coins in better condition with clear inscriptions and imagery tend to command higher prices, reflecting their appeal to collectors and historians alike. ### Conclusion The Æ Follis of Kiurike II from the Kingdom of Tashir-Dzoraget is more than just a piece of currency; it is a window into the past, offering insights into the cultural, religious, and political landscapes of medieval Armenia. Its unique design and historical context make it a valuable addition to any collection, while its rarity enhances its allure among collectors. Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or a history enthusiast, this coin embodies the rich heritage and enduring legacy of the Armenian people during the medieval period.

[SEO TITLE]: Discover the Æ Follis Coin of Kiurike II from Tashir-Dzoraget [SEO DESCRIPTION]: Explore the unique Æ Follis of Kiurike II, a rare Armenian bronze coin. [KEYWORDS]: Æ Follis, Kiurike II, Tashir-Dzoraget, Armenian coin, bronze coin, numismatics, medieval coins

Discover the Æ Follis Coin of Kiurike II from Tashir-Dzoraget

Introduction

The Æ Follis of Kiurike II is a captivating piece of medieval history, reflecting the rich tapestry of Armenian culture and the Kingdom of Tashir-Dzoraget. Minted between 1048 and 1100, this coin stands out not only for its historical significance but also for its distinctive design that captures the religious and sovereign icons of the era. Collectors and historians alike are drawn to this bronze coin for its artistic and historical value, making it a treasured piece in numismatic circles.

Historical Background

The Kingdom of Tashir-Dzoraget was a prominent Armenian kingdom in the medieval period, strategically located to the north of the larger Armenian principalities. Under the rule of Kiurike II, this kingdom flourished, and the issuance of coins like the Æ Follis signaled both economic prosperity and a strong cultural identity. The coinage of Tashir-Dzoraget not only facilitated trade but also disseminated the kingdom's sovereignty and religious devotion, as seen in the imagery used on the coin. Kiurike II's reign marked a period of relative stability and growth. The Æ Follis coin serves as a testament to the kingdom's prominence during the 11th century, reflecting its connections with the Byzantine Empire and other neighboring states, which influenced its art and coinage.

Coin Images

Coin obverse image Obverse

Coin reverse image Reverse

Design Features

The design of the Æ Follis coin is a remarkable blend of religious iconography and regal imagery. On the obverse, the coin features a bust of Christ, a symbol of divine protection and authority, adorned in a himation. Christ is depicted with a cross nimbate, an iconographic element emphasizing sanctity and spiritual power. This design is accompanied by Armenian inscriptions on either side, further asserting the religious and cultural identity of the kingdom. The reverse of the coin presents five lines of Armenian inscription. While the exact wording varies among surviving specimens, these inscriptions typically convey messages of sovereignty, religious devotion, or the authority of the ruling monarch, Kiurike II. The use of Armenian script on both sides highlights the distinct national identity and linguistic heritage of the kingdom.

Technical Specifications

The Æ Follis of Kiurike II is crafted from bronze, a common material for coinage in the medieval period, balancing durability with cost-effectiveness. The coin weighs approximately 7.11 grams, a standard weight that facilitated trade and economic transactions. While the precise diameter is not specified, coins of this era typically ranged from 20 to 25 millimeters in diameter, offering a practical size for handling and circulation.

Collectible Value

In the world of numismatics, the Æ Follis of Kiurike II is highly regarded for its rarity and historical significance. As a representation of a lesser-known Armenian kingdom, these coins are scarce, with limited numbers surviving to the present day. This rarity, combined with the unique design elements and historical context, makes the Æ Follis a sought-after collectible. The market value of this coin can vary significantly based on its condition, provenance, and specific inscriptions. Coins in better condition with clear inscriptions and imagery tend to command higher prices, reflecting their appeal to collectors and historians alike.

Conclusion

The Æ Follis of Kiurike II from the Kingdom of Tashir-Dzoraget is more than just a piece of currency; it is a window into the past, offering insights into the cultural, religious, and political landscapes of medieval Armenia. Its unique design and historical context make it a valuable addition to any collection, while its rarity enhances its allure among collectors. Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or a history enthusiast, this coin embodies the rich heritage and enduring legacy of the Armenian people during the medieval period.

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