Half Asper of Alexios III of Trebizond c. 1349 - 1390

Curator: This is a "Half Asper" coin, conceived by Alexios III of Trebizond. It lives at the Harvard Art Museums and weighs 1.53 grams. Editor: It's so small, almost lost to time, yet teeming with a story! I wonder whose hands it passed through? Curator: Well, imagine the politics embedded in its imagery. Royal imagery on currency was powerful propaganda. Editor: Yes, a tiny symbol shouting royalty, even if worn. I see figures, perhaps religious, or maybe family? Curator: Likely, especially given Alexios' need to cement his rule, visually linking his dynasty to legitimacy. Editor: Its scale is deceiving; small object, gigantic ambitions! It leaves me contemplating the weight of history... Curator: Exactly! It's a reminder that even the smallest artifacts can offer enormous insights into political strategy.