Copper Follaro of Manuel II c. 1391 - 1425

Editor: This is a copper follaro of Manuel II, created by the emperor himself. It's incredible how something so small was once currency, a tangible representation of power. What can you tell me about its significance? Curator: Consider the materials and the labor involved. Copper, a readily available metal, signifies a wider distribution of wealth than, say, gold. The act of minting—a repetitive, state-controlled process—speaks volumes about the economy and the emperor's attempts to control it. What does that suggest to you about the Byzantine Empire at the time? Editor: It sounds like despite its small size, the coin has a lot to say about economics and imperial power. Thank you. Curator: Absolutely. Even the wear and tear on the coin tells a story of circulation and use by everyday people. Materiality shapes history.