© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Tetarteron - Isaac Komnenos Usurpation of Cyprus ND
| Bronze | 3.47 g | 23.5 mm |
| Issuer | Byzantine Empire (Byzantine states) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Isaac Komnenos of Cyprus (1184-1191) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1185-1191 |
| Value | Tetarteron (1⁄864) |
| Currency | First Hyperpyron Nomisma (1092-cca. 1300) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 3.47 g |
| Diameter | 23.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#126801 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Isaac standing facing on dais, wearing stemma, clothed with divitision and chlamys, holding cruciger sceptre with right hand and cruciger globe with left hand; Hand of God in upper right field.
Inscriptions on either side; beaded border.
Lettering:
I Δ
CA ЄC
AKI ПO
OC TH
C
Translation:
Isaakios Despotis:
"Despot Isaac".
Interesting fact
The Tetarteron coin was issued during the usurpation of Cyprus by Isaac Komnenos, who was a successful military leader and a member of the Komnenian dynasty that ruled the Byzantine Empire. Despite being a standard circulation coin, it's notable that the coin was made of bronze, which was a less valuable material than the gold and silver coins that were also in circulation at the time. This suggests that the coin was intended for use in everyday transactions and reflects the economic and monetary policies of the Byzantine Empire during this period.
