Tetarteron of Andronicos I, Constantinople c. 1183 - 1185

Curator: Here we have a Tetarteron, a Byzantine coin, issued by Andronikos I, who ruled from Constantinople. Editor: It’s so small, almost humble in appearance. The dark patina lends an air of mystery, obscuring the details of the imagery. Curator: These coins were integral to the Byzantine economy, facilitating trade and reflecting the emperor's power. Consider the labor, from mining the metal to striking the die. Editor: The images are intriguing; I see what appear to be figures, perhaps religious icons or imperial portraits. The composition, even in its worn state, still speaks to balance. Curator: Its materiality speaks volumes, doesn't it? This isn't just currency; it’s a tangible link to a complex political, social, and economic structure. Editor: Absolutely. Looking at this coin, I am struck by its tactile quality and symbolic weight—a miniature window into a forgotten empire.