logo_moneymuseum

Byzantine Empire, Manuel I, Hyperpyron

back

Byzantine Empire, Manuel I, Hyperpyron (obverse) Byzantine Empire, Manuel I, Hyperpyron (reverse)

It was the will of John II Komnenos that the throne would pass to his fourth and youngest son Manuel after his death. Manuel (1143-1180) issued only one type of the hyperpyra during his 37-year reign. The coins bore an unusual depiction of Christ, resembling a children's drawing. The reverse shows the emperor with a labarum – a banner with the Chi Rho – and a cross globe.

back

Signet Sunflower Foundation