Aspron Trachy Nomisma of Manuel I, Constantinople 1160 - 1164

Curator: This is an Aspron Trachy Nomisma, a coin from Constantinople, crafted under Manuel I. Its uneven surface catches the light in a strangely beautiful way, doesn’t it? Editor: It has the weight of history, literally! I’m immediately struck by the wear and tear. This object has circulated, seen empires rise and fall. Curator: Indeed. It's more than just currency; it's a small, tangible piece of Byzantine society, echoing with the daily transactions and power dynamics of the time. Editor: Absolutely. Who handled it, what did they buy, and how does this object reflect the economic and social inequalities? It’s a lens through which we can examine structures of power. Curator: I love how a humble coin can spark such grand reflections. There's a certain poetry in that, don’t you think? Editor: Without a doubt. It’s a reminder that even the smallest objects can hold immense historical weight.