Trebizond - Manuel III - sb 2638?

[ela126]

I’ve been venturing into the late, questionably attractive and very uncommon coins lately. The fact the are quite pitiful is way makes them attractive, the last grasps of the empire.

This coin was purchased off eBay after a similar coin was bought which I was quite happy with. This was sold as a Manuel III, potentially a 2638…. Which is said to be a Retowski 27..

It does seem to be a Trachy, with a slight cup shape to it. The obverse is almost unstruck, causing identification issues, but the reverse is somewhat nicely there, considering what these look like.

0.96g 15mm

I can find no existing examples of a 2638, only this picture.

and my coin:

The first letter on the reverse match some decently to the picture, I wouldn’t say the second does. But the K also is a good match. 
 

I see there is another example with potentially similiar reverse, but an eagle on the obverse, sb 2640…

Curious if anyone has some expertise here to confirm anything, or point to a different emperor. Thanks.

Any other Trebizond coins are welcome of course!

[Simon]

Not a great shot I'm sorry but the book is small. It's is from Simon Bendall Introduction to Trebizond coin age. 

[ela126]

@Simon thank you for this. Seems like the pictures are similar. Do you see anything that would have you believe it’s not Manuel III?

[Simon]

@ela126 The area is one I only dabble in. I see it as a match for the Obverse, Especially when the photo is enlarged in Bendalls book. I see it match on the Emperors side, even the K shape. The other side I see nothing but the coin in hand might reveal more to you. 

As for the best opinions you can get on the board there are several, I have a great respect for Ross's work, @Glebe , I think the @TheTrachyEnjoyer has a strong knowledge of this time period as well. There are others, but these two absorb themselves in the time period for this coin.  I highly suggest you wait to celebrate when some of the Palaiologan experts reply. 

Edited November 2, 2024 by Simon

[ela126]

@Simon Appreciate the guidance. Very appropriate 

Edited November 2, 2024 by ela126

[TheTrachyEnjoyer]

On 11/2/2024 at 6:39 PM, Simon said:

Not a great shot I'm sorry but the book is small. It's is from Simon Bendall Introduction to Trebizond coin age. 

I will have something more comprehensive out in the near future!