Kirmaneuli Tetri - Manuel I Imitation Western Georgia

Historical Context: This Kirmaneuli Tetri, an imitation of a Byzantine issue of Manuel I Komnenos (1143-1180), originates from Western Georgia during the Kingdom's flourishing period. Its existence underscores significant economic and cultural ties with the Byzantine Empire. The adoption and imitation of Byzantine silver coinage, like the tetarteron, indicate reliance on established monetary standards for trade and recognition of Byzantine prestige in the 12th century Georgian economy.

Artistry: Crafted by anonymous Georgian artisans, this coin belongs to a stylistic school defined by its imitative nature. The design attempts to replicate the imperial iconography of Manuel I's Byzantine prototypes, typically featuring an imperial bust on the obverse and a religious motif, often Christ or the Virgin Mary, on the reverse. While striving for fidelity, these imitations often exhibit a more stylized or simplified execution compared to their Byzantine models, with less precise detailing and frequently garbled inscriptions, reflecting local interpretation.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this example measures 20.9 mm and weighs 2.27 grams. High-points susceptible to wear or weak strike typically include the emperor's facial features, crown, and garment details on the obverse, and the halo and drapery of the religious figure on the reverse. As an imitation, these coins often display characteristic technical qualities such as irregular flans, off-center strikes, and variable strike pressure, leading to incomplete design elements. Bennett Geor#476 references this specific type.