Manuel I Komnenos, 1143–1180. EL Aspron Trachy. Constantinople

Manuel I Komnenos, 1143–1180. EL Aspron Trachy. Constantinople, circa mid-reign. 4.48g Obv. Christ Pantokrator enthroned, raising right hand in benediction and holding Gospels. Rev. Manuel I standing facing, crowned, wearing divitision and loros, holding akakia in right hand and labarum in left. Rare reverse type with emperor alone. With old tag.

An outstanding example of the scyphate coinage of Byzantium, struck in electrum on a broad and carefully prepared flan. Convex on the obverse and concave on the reverse, this piece captures the technical distinctiveness and artistry of mid-12th century imperial coinage. The depiction of Christ Pantokrator remains sharp and luminous, while the rare reverse type, Manuel alone, without the Virgin, emphasizes imperial authority and divine sanction in its purest form.

Bright, silvery surfaces with a fine cabinet patina, from an old collection. Only the lightest wear to the portrait, with a few faint scratches and striking flaws visible on close inspection but in no way detracting from the remarkable preservation.