Half-Stavraton of Manuel II c. 1391 - 1425

Editor: This is a Half-Stavraton, a coin, by Manuel II. Its small size really emphasizes its age, and the images on it feel so worn. What can you tell me about it? Curator: This coin whispers of Byzantium's struggle against Ottoman expansion. Manuel II, a desperate emperor, used images of divine authority on coinage to shore up his legitimacy. What does it say about power when even emperors must negotiate their image? Editor: It makes you wonder how much control they really had. Thanks, that’s a lot to think about. Curator: Indeed. Let's remember that even in moments of decline, symbols can be potent weapons in the fight for survival.