Empire of Trebizond Manuel I Comnenus (r. 1238–1263 AD) AR Asper — Trebizond mint (modern-day Trabzon, Turkey) 2.69 g • 23.5 mm • 6h — About Extremely Fine Toned surfaces; small flatness & heat marks on reverse. ⸻ Obverse: Ο/Α/Γ/ΑΙ / ΕΥΓΕΝΙ — Saint Eugenius standing facing, nimbate, holding long cross in right hand. Reverse: (MH)/NIΛ / Ο-K/(MH) — Manuel standing facing, holding labarum & akakia; manus Dei above. ⸻ References: Bendall Intro. 20 cf. Retowski 1–220 (general type) SB 2602 ⸻ Provenance: From the Collection of Prof. James M. Collier, acquired in Amsterdam, 1993. Sold to benefit the Collier Prize in Ancient Numismatics, offered by the American Numismatic Society. Ex Nomos AG, Obolos 37, lot 507. ⸻ Historical Context: The Empire of Trebizond, founded during the fragmentation of the Byzantine Empire in 1204, developed its own distinct artistic and numismatic identity. Under Manuel I Comnenus, the empire reached a period of relative stability and prestige. The asper type with Saint Eugenius, the patron saint of Trebizond, reflects the deeply local religious character of the empire, while the reverse portrays the emperor with the labarum and akakia, traditional symbols of imperial power and spiritual authority. The manus Dei above reinforces the divine legitimacy of Manuel’s rule. Coins from Trebizond are highly valued for their unique blend of Byzantine tradition and regional identity—this specimen, with its Collier provenance, is particularly desirable. ⸻ Shipping & Packaging: Items are packed securely and shipped with Track & Trace. Shipping only within the European Union. No shipping to the USA due to tariffs.