One side depicts Christ enthroned. He is flanked by the initials ΙC-ΧC (Jesus Christ). On the other side Michael VII Doukas is depicted in full length wearing imperial vestments, holding in his right hand a labarum on long shaft and in his left hand a globus cruciger. Around the perimeter is the inscription “Michael Doukas, Emperor of the Romans”.

Michael VII Doukas, son of Constantine X Doukas, was crowned emperor after the overthrow of Romanos IV Diogenes, who has been defeated at the battle of Mantzikert. During his reign there were many revolutions, as the Turks advanced deeper into Anatolia. Michael VII Doukas was deposed by the general Nikephoros Botaneiates.