Manuel I Comnenus (AD 1143-1180). EL aspron trachy (32mm, 4.19 gm, 6h). NGC Choice AU

Description

Byzantine Empire: Manuel I Comnenus

Reign: AD 1143-1180
Denomination: EL Aspron Trachy
Mint: Constantinople
Weight: 4.19 g
Diameter: 32 mm
Orientation: 6h

Obverse:

• Design: Christ standing facing on a dais, bearded, wearing a nimbus cruciger with five pellets in each limb, a pallium, and a colobium. Christ raises his right hand in benediction and holds a book of Gospels in his left. There are eight-pointed stars on either side.
• Inscription: IC-XC (barred)

Reverse:

• Design: Manuel I (on the left) and St. Theodore (on the right), both standing facing. They jointly hold a patriarchal cross with a large globus on the base between them. Manuel I is depicted with a crown, divitision, and loros, with his right hand on the pommel of a sheathed sword at his hip. St. Theodore is shown in military attire with his left hand on the pommel of a sheathed sword at his hip.
• Inscription: M-AN-ΩHΛ-O / ΘЄ/Ο/Δ/Ω/Ρ/OC

References:

• Sear 1959

Condition:

• Grading: NGC Choice AU 4/5 – 2/5
• Notes: Graffito, edge crimps

Historical Context:

Manuel I Comnenus ruled the Byzantine Empire during a period of significant external and internal challenges. His reign was marked by efforts to restore Byzantine influence and power, particularly in the face of the rising threat from Western European Crusader forces. The coinage of Manuel I reflects both his political ambitions and the tense relations with the Latin Crusaders.

The obverse of the coin, depicting Christ with the book of Gospels, symbolizes divine authority and protection. The reverse, featuring Manuel I with St. Theodore, underscores the emperor’s role as the protector of Orthodoxy and Byzantine Christianity. St. Theodore, a prominent figure in Byzantine piety and military patronage, reinforces the message of the empire’s commitment to defending its faith and sovereignty.

The presence of the patriarchal cross on the reverse highlights Manuel’s dedication to preserving the Orthodox Christian tradition amid increasing pressure from Roman Catholic Crusaders. This coin serves as a testament to the era’s complex interplay between religious symbolism and political power.

Provenance:

• From the Eardley and Ethel Madsen Collection

For further information, please call 212-319-1077