An ancient Byzantine Empire Manuel I Komnenos Aspron Trachy coin, crafted from electrum composition and dating back to circa 1160 to 1164. This coin is a tangible link to the reign of Manuel I Komnenos, one of the notable rulers of the Byzantine Empire during the 12th century. The obverse of the coin features the majestic image of Christ Pantokrator standing on a dais, flanked by large stars on either side, reflecting the religious and spiritual significance of the Byzantine Empire. On the reverse side, Manuel I and St. Theodore stand, facing each other, both with their hands atop their swords, and together they hold a patriarchal cross atop a globus, symbolizing the fusion of political and religious authority during Manuel Is rule. Ancient Byzantine Coins And Numismatic Collectibles.