Tetarteron of Alexios III c. 14th century

Editor: Here we have a Tetarteron, attributed to Alexios III, at the Harvard Art Museums. It’s fascinating to see how labor and value were literally pressed into such a small material object. What can you tell me about this coin? Curator: This coin exemplifies the intersection of power, materiality, and social context. How was the metal sourced, processed, and distributed? What was the labor involved in creating the die and striking the coin? Editor: So, it's less about Alexios III as an individual and more about the production process of this currency? Curator: Precisely. Consider the socio-economic implications of controlling the minting process. To whom did it give power, and how might that power have been exerted? Editor: It’s a novel way to look at a coin; I'm more used to considering the artistry and craftsmanship involved. Curator: The craft is significant, but so is the broader context of its creation. Think about how this coin facilitated economic activity and shaped the social landscape. Editor: That shifts my perspective significantly. Thanks!