Coin of Manuel I c. 12th century

Editor: Here we have a "Coin of Manuel I," dating from around his reign, created by Manuel himself. It's quite small, worn, but also, somehow, powerful. What do you make of it? Curator: It's more than just pocket change, isn't it? It’s a tangible link to a ruler, to a specific moment. I see a symbol, almost a signature, repeated on the coin. It whispers of authority, doesn't it? Of being known. I wonder, what was it like to hold this then? Editor: Absolutely. It's about power, being remembered, and touched. I guess art can live in the smallest of things! Curator: Exactly! It’s a universe in miniature.