Stavraton of Manuel II Palaiologos of Byzantium c. 1391 - 1425

Editor: This is a Stavraton, a Byzantine coin, of Manuel II Palaiologos. It's small, silver, and worn, but there's something haunting about it. What story does it whisper to you? Curator: Oh, this little coin? For me, it sings a song of survival. Think of it: Manuel II, emperor clinging to power, commissioning this. Each strike of the die is a prayer, a claim. It's not just currency; it’s defiance cast in silver. Do you see it, the image of Christ? Editor: Yes, it's quite stylized. A bit intimidating, actually. Curator: Exactly! Intimidation was part of the job description! And the weight… so light, yet carrying the weight of an empire’s hopes. It makes you wonder, doesn't it, what it bought, what it couldn't? Editor: I never thought of a coin holding so much history. Thank you for sharing your insights. Curator: My pleasure. Now you see, art isn't just in galleries, sometimes it's jangling in your pocket.