Numismatic

Byzantine Billon Aspron Trachy Manuel I (1143-1180 AD) XF

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During the twelfth century, the Byzantine Empire produced a distinctive style of coinage known as the billon aspron trachy. These intriguing pieces are instantly recognizable by their curved, cup-like shape, a departure from the flat planchets of other medieval cultures. Issued during the reign of Emperor Manuel I, who ruled from 1143 to 1180 AD, these coins represent a fascinating era of medieval Mediterranean history. The obverse of this coin displays a forward-facing bust of Christ, a powerful and common motif of the Christian empire. On the reverse, the imagery can vary, often depicting Christ, the Virgin Mary, or the emperor himself in a standing or enthroned position. This particular specimen is cataloged as reference Sear 1964 and has survived in Extra Fine condition. Crafted from billon, a low-grade silver alloy, each coin measures between 28 to 32 millimeters in diameter and weighs roughly 3 to 4 grams. The curved surfaces and detailed religious iconography offer a tangible connection to the artistic and political world of Constantinople in the high Middle Ages.