| Issuer | Thessalonica, Empire of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1230-1237 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | |
| Currency | First Hyperpyron Nomisma (1224-1246) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 1.7 g |
| Diameter | 24 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Concave |
| Technique | Hammered (scyphate) |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | BCV#2179 |
| Obverse description | The Theotokos (Holy Mary and Child), nimbate, in orans, wearing tunic and maphorion (veil); Star in either field. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Full-length figures of emperor and St. Demetrius; Emperor, bearded, wearing divitision, loros, maniakion, and stemma with pendilia, right hand holding cross-tipped-scepter and left accepting globus cruciger; St. Demetrius nimbate, wearing divitision, chlamys, and maniakion, right hand outstretched to offer the emperor globus cruciger and left holding spear over shoulder. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
? - - ND (1230-1237) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1214797970 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Æ Trachy was issued by Manuel Komnenos Doukas, Emperor of Thessalonica (1230-1237). Following the Fourth Crusade, the Byzantine Empire fragmented, with Thessalonica a rival imperial claimant to Nicaea. Manuel succeeded his brother Theodore, whose capture weakened Thessalonica's position. This coinage reflects Manuel's assertion of imperial legitimacy and sovereignty amidst diminishing political influence, symbolizing Byzantine succession struggles and regional power shifts.
Artistry: Characteristic of late Byzantine numismatic tradition, the artistry of this copper trachy is an anonymous product of the Thessalonican mint. The scyphate (cup-shaped) fabric is typical. While specific details require visual inspection, such coins commonly feature Christ enthroned or standing on the obverse. The reverse depicts Manuel Komnenos Doukas standing, often in imperial regalia. The style is generally stylized and less refined than earlier Byzantine issues, reflecting the era's economic constraints and minting practices.
Technical/Grading: Weighing 1.7 grams and measuring 24mm, this copper trachy exhibits inherent technical challenges. High-points for wear and strike typically include the emperor's head and imperial attributes on the reverse, and Christ's facial features and halo on the obverse. Due to the cupped flan and striking methods, these coins are frequently off-center, weakly struck, or exhibit flat striking. The copper alloy often presents with surface irregularities, pitting, or lamination, impacting overall preservation and detail clarity.