Tetarteron of John II Komnenos, Thessalonica 1137 - 1143

Curator: This is a Tetarteron coin, likely from Thessalonica, depicting John II Komnenos. It’s a small bronze piece, only about 4 grams. Editor: It looks like it's been through a lot! All that wear and tear gives it such a melancholic feel. Curator: Indeed, coins like this circulated widely in the Byzantine Empire. They weren't just money; they were also propaganda, projecting the emperor’s image and authority. Editor: Imagine holding this in your hand centuries ago. It’s heavy with history, isn’t it? Curator: Absolutely. This little coin offers a glimpse into the Byzantine economy, its art, and its political messaging all at once. It's pretty powerful. Editor: You know, I suddenly feel like writing a poem about it, something about vanished empires and the weight of kings. Curator: That sounds wonderful. And for me, it's another piece of a complex puzzle – understanding Byzantium through these tiny, but significant, artifacts.