Copper Tetarteron of Theodore II, Magnesia c. 1254 - 1255

Editor: This is a Copper Tetarteron of Theodore II, Magnesia. It’s quite small and the wear on the metal is very apparent. What can you tell us about the materiality and production of this coin? Curator: Well, the copper tells us about the resources available, and the coin's size reflects its value. Its production would have involved specific labor, from mining the copper to striking the coin. Consider who controlled those processes and how this object facilitated trade and power. Editor: So, it is more than just a coin, but also a representation of the economy? Curator: Precisely! The wear and tear also speak to circulation, to use, and to its historical significance, beyond just its initial minting. Editor: That's a very insightful perspective; now I see how much can be learned from just one small coin!