Aspron Trachy Nomisma of Isaac II, Constantinople 1185 - 1195

Curator: Before us is an Aspron Trachy Nomisma, commissioned in Constantinople by Isaac II. It's a fascinating artifact. Editor: My first impression is its weight. It looks like it could carry a lot of political weight despite its small size. Curator: Absolutely. It reflects Isaac II's authority, which was certainly under pressure during his reign. Think about the function of the iconography. Editor: It's interesting to consider this coin’s potential impact on the everyday person—how such objects might reinforce societal structures and hierarchies. Curator: These coins served not only as currency but as symbols of imperial power, circulating through a society grappling with its own identity. Editor: I think the coin offers a rich window into broader issues of power, identity, and societal structures within Byzantium. Curator: It’s remarkable how a single, humble object can unlock such compelling narratives. Editor: Indeed. It’s a stark reminder of the enduring connection between art and society.