Trachy nomisma of Andronicos I, Constantinople c. 1183 - 1185

Curator: Here we have a Trachy nomisma of Andronikos I, struck in Constantinople. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the politics and iconography of the Byzantine Empire. Editor: It’s incredible how such a small piece—1.65 grams, you say?—can feel so monumental. The wear and tear speak of countless transactions, a tangible link to the past. Curator: Precisely! These coins were not mere currency. They were powerful tools of propaganda, designed to legitimize Andronikos’ rule and project an image of imperial authority. Editor: And the material itself—what alloys were used, the minting process—it all reflects the economic and technological capabilities of the empire at that moment in history. Curator: Absolutely. The imagery, the emperor depicted alongside religious figures, underscores the divinely ordained nature of his power. It's a visual statement of dominance. Editor: I find myself drawn to the subtle details, the imperfections. They reveal the human labor involved, a counterpoint to the grand narratives of emperors and empires. Curator: Seeing it this way really underscores how potent the control of imagery and messaging was during Andronikos’ reign. Editor: And for me, how the story of labor and materials tells a more truthful narrative about trade, economy, and craft.